Up to 250,000 people will travel through the region’s busiest airport over the Easter period.
Management at East Midlands Airport they expect passenger numbers to recover to 75-80 per cent of pre-Covid levels this summer – a sharp contrast to this time last year when the airport’s passenger operation was still shut.
The start of many school holidays on April 1 also marked the start of the busy summer season which runs from April to October, during which the airport will see two-thirds of its total annual passenger numbers. The period also sees an increase in flight numbers and in the number of destinations served to 22.
Between them, Ryanair, Jet2.com, TUI, Flybe, Aurigny and Blue Islands will fly to more than 50 destinations in Europe, Eastern Europe and Northeast Africa.
A spokesman said: “For many people, jetting off this Easter will be their first overseas trip since before the pandemic brought international travel to a standstill.
“Thanks to the vaccination roll-out, all UK travel restrictions have now been dropped making it far easier to travel.
“However, passengers are encouraged to check rules that apply in the countries to which they are travelling which may differ to the UK’s.
“The airport is also advising those who haven’t flown for a while to prepare for their journey well in advance, and to remind themselves of the rules around security and hand luggage.
“The contrast between the start of this summer season and last years could not be starker.
“Twelve months ago, the passenger terminal doors were shut, and planes were grounded.
“When international travel did resume, the impact of travel restrictions, testing and general uncertainty resulted in passenger numbers not exceeding 20 per cent of pre-Covid levels.
“The airport lost two consecutive summer seasons as a result of Covid. This year, passenger numbers are expected to recover to 75-80 per cent of pre-Covid levels.”
Airport managing director Clare James said: “I started in post in July 2020, and this will be the first time I’ve seen the passenger operation in full swing.
“The last two years have been pretty bleak for this industry. It’s clear that people are very keen to get-away for a hard-earned break or to visit family and friends.
“I’m very much looking forward to the buzz and energy that passengers bring to this airport and to welcoming people back as they start travelling again.”
With the recovery of aviation set to continue, the airport is recruiting for operational roles. The bulk of the vacancies are within the airport’s security teams but other jobs are available too with the airport’s retail and hospitability providers, airlines and ground handling businesses.
