The East Midlands Airport (EMA) has started work on its £120m ($152m) modernisation programme of terminal upgrades, taxiway reconstruction, and ATC improvements.

The initial phase of the reconstruction will concentrate on the roof above the departure lounge, which according to EMA “can suffer from leaks.”

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Steve Griffiths, EMA’s Managing Director, emphasised how the project will elevate the passenger experience.

Griffiths said: “This is the start of a very exciting period for the airport. Our passenger numbers are almost back to pre-Covid levels and our already significant air cargo operation has capacity to expand, along with the potential for growth and investment that the East Midlands Freeport brings.

“This programme of substantial investment at EMA demonstrates our confidence in the future and will help to improve the experience of flying from and trading through East Midlands Airport.

The airport stated how work has commenced on the extension of the security hall, following planning approval from the Northwest Leicestershire District Council.

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According to EMA, its modernisation programme will feature security changes backed by new UK government rules. This includes body and baggage scanning technology and the removal of 100ml liquid restrictions.

Alongside this, the reconstruction and resurfacing of taxiways will allow for better accommodating the airport’s modern aircraft.

“We’re really proud of the effortless travel we provide that prompts people to choose EMA for their holidays abroad, and of the vital part we lay in powering UK trade. We’re always looking at ways to improve and this investment will help us do that over the next five years and beyond” added Griffiths.

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