The UK’s East Midlands Airport is stepping into the spotlight as a new hub for UK–China trade, thanks to a landmark deal with Central Airlines and YunExpress. In just days, the first Boeing 777 freighters will touch down twice a week, with plans to ramp up to five services—marking the debut of these Chinese carriers in the UK.
Fast-Track Cargo to the Heart of Britain
Handling nearly $1.6 billion in annual trade with China, East Midlands already runs a 24/7 operation free from night-time curfews. “Its central location means goods can be distributed quickly across the country,” says Ioan Reed-Aspley, Head of Corporate Affairs. That agility gives local businesses a direct line to Chinese markets, cutting transit times and costs.
Tackling Empty Legs
Despite this inbound surge, many freighters return to Asia empty—an inefficiency the airport is keen to fix. Each aircraft can carry roughly 110 tonnes, and East Midlands is partnering with UK exporters to fill capacity on outbound flights, turning waste into opportunity.
Building a High-Tech Logistics Hub
To solidify its role as a trade gateway, the airport is eyeing redevelopment on lands around the airfield—including the former Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station site. Plans call for a state-of-the-art tech and manufacturing campus focused on advanced logistics, data analytics, and sustainable practices.
Why It Matters for Global Trade
As e-commerce and fast-delivery demand soar, this expansion positions East Midlands as a model for future airports in the G20. For entrepreneurs, tech innovators and digital nomads, it’s a real-world example of how infrastructure, data savvy and green-minded planning can reshape global supply chains.
Reference(s):
Central UK airport builds China connections with major cargo deals
cgtn.com
