Half term is underway and East Midlands Airport is expecting a busy time as families getaway for a much-needed winter break.
More than 100,000 people are set to pass through the East Midlands gateway during the next two weeks which contrasts sharply with this time last year when the passenger terminal was closed and flights were grounded due a ban on non-essential travel.
While restrictions have been eased for passengers returning into the UK, the airport is reminding anyone planning to travel overseas to check the requirements in place within the countries that are being travelled to.
The most popular destinations continue to be those where sunshine can be found which is reflected in the number of flights to these places.
Tenerife, Alicante, Lanzarote and Malaga top the list while there is also strong demand for trips closer to home in Dublin.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the airport is running a reduced service.
Here's the latest from the airport's website on the opening hours and facilities operating:
Restaurants, shops and facilities currently operating at East Midlands Airport - airside
Castle Rock
JDSport
Pork and Pickle
Starbucks
Traveller
WDF
WHSmiths Airside
Restaurants, shops and facilities currently operating at East Midlands Airport - landside
WHSmiths
Greggs
Opening hours
All of the units will be using the opening hours below:
Monday: 04.00 - 18.00
Tuesday: 04.00 - 18.30
Wednesday: 04.00 - 17.00
Thursday: 04.00 - 18.00
Friday: 04.00 - 18.00
Saturday: 04.00 - 18.30
Sunday: 04.00 - 17.00
The airport hopes that February half-term will mark the start of a sustained period of recovery following two of the most challenging years for the aviation sector. If EMA hits its target of welcoming three million passengers through the airport this year, that would equate to 80% of pre-Covid levels.
This would be a significant improvement on last year when, for much of the peak summer season, passenger levels did not exceed 30% of pre-Covid volumes, the airport added.
In preparation for a busier period, the airport and onsite business partners are recruiting to roles across many functions, from security to hospitality. To promote current vacancies, a jobs fair is being held at the airport on Saturday, February 26, 10am-2pm where job seekers can meet employers face-to-face and find out more about available roles.
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