East Midlands Airport (EMA) has welcomed Hong Kong Air Cargo as the seventh new cargo airline to begin operations at the airport this year, marking another significant milestone in EMA’s fast-growing freight business.
The carrier’s first flight touched down on Tuesday, 18 November, joining a wave of new operators that have selected East Midlands as their UK gateway since the airport launched its cargo growth strategy seven months ago.
Hong Kong Air Cargo—established in 2017 and operating from one of Asia’s most dynamic logistics hubs—brings a fleet of five Airbus A330-200F wide-body freighters into EMA’s network. The airline operates both charter and scheduled services across key Asian and European markets and has begun a series of charter flights between Hong Kong and East Midlands Airport.
The carrier joins Central Airlines, Atlas Air, Ethiopian Cargo, Saudia Cargo, Etihad Cargo and SF Express, contributing to an 11.4% year-on-year increase in cargo volumes at the UK’s largest pure-cargo airport.
EMA’s central UK location, 24/7 operational capability, and deep expertise in freight-only aircraft continue to attract leading international cargo airlines. This growth comes even before major long-term expansion plans take shape, with four runway-side plots totalling 50 hectares earmarked for future cargo development to support an expected 54% rise in demand over the next 20 years.
EMA leadership welcomes strategic new connection
Adam Andrews, Commercial Director at East Midlands Airport, said:
“Our cargo operation continues to go from strength to strength, with unprecedented growth in operators and freight volumes over the last seven months. We’re delighted to welcome Hong Kong Air Cargo to the airport and look forward to working with them to further strengthen the China-UK trade links that East Midlands is playing such a vital role in. Their arrival comes as operations begin to ramp up towards Christmas as everyone searches for the perfect gifts for their loved ones.”
Hong Kong Air Cargo highlights EMA’s strategic value
Tony Ma, Chairman of Hong Kong Air Cargo, commented:
“We are delighted to commence our charter operations to East Midlands Airport, one of the busiest air cargo hubs in the UK. The service demonstrates our commitment to providing tailored air freight solutions for our customers. We thank the airport for its support and excellent facilities.”
With momentum building and new operators continuing to join the airport’s network, East Midlands Airport is solidifying its role as a critical UK logistics hub—and a key connector between Asia and Europe’s evolving supply chains.
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