East Midlands Airport has landed a major deal with Chinese cargo operators which are starting regular flights this month – their first to any UK airport.
Chinese logistics firm YunExpress began operating its own Boeing 777F freighter flights in partnership with Central Airlines earlier this week. The deal underlines East Midlands Airport’s status as the UK’s number one express air freight hub.
The new flights will operate in and out of China initially twice a week, with plans to increase frequency. Central Airlines is a growing operator based out of Hainan, flying to 12 countries and 43 airports last year for a wide variety of clients. YunExpress has a long-term commitment to grow its cargo operations and presence at East Midlands Airport, with further announcements expected.
Next Tuesday, May 13, the next arrival will be given the red carpet treatment and greeted by representatives from the Chinese Embassy to the UK, Chinese Chamber of Commerce and East Midlands Chamber of Commerce.
East Midlands Airport’s Managing Director, Steve Griffiths, said: “I’m delighted we have landed this deal with Central Airlines and YunExpress, the first Chinese cargo operators here, making us the first UK airport to take their flights.
“These new operators are a major coup for the airport and point to our status as the UK’s best-placed airport for the ongoing growth in express air cargo. While there are constraints at many other airports, we have capacity for more cargo flights, can operate 24/7 and can quickly get goods from aircraft to anywhere in the UK.
“YunExpress’s plans, and Central Airlines’ commitment to twice-weekly flights initially, together provide a long-term presence at East Midlands.”
Bole Xia, General Manager of YunExpress, said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with East Midlands Airport, marking a milestone for YunExpress as our owned freighter first touches down in the UK. This new route not only expands our European network but also reinforces our commitment to delivering faster, more reliable services to our customers.
“With EMA’s strategic location at the heart of the UK’s thriving e-commerce sector, we are confident in our ability to enhance delivery speed and efficiency. This achievement reflects our ongoing dedication to innovation and excellence in global logistics.”
