Where Is East Midlands Airport?

Tucked away in the heart of England, East Midlands Airport (EMA) is a hidden gem in the UK’s transport network.

While it may not carry the international fame of Heathrow, Gatwick or Manchester, it remains one of the most important regional airports, particularly for travellers from Nottingham, Derby and Leicester.

Functioning as a vital passenger gateway and a critical centre for freight, East Midlands Airport plays a dual role few are aware of.

In fact, it ranks as one of the UK’s busiest cargo airports, thanks in part to its strategic central location and excellent connectivity.

Whether you’re jetting off on holiday or shipping goods across Europe, EMA delivers speed, efficiency and accessibility without the chaos typical of the larger airports.

Where is East Midlands Airport

So, where is East Midlands Airport located? The answer places it at a sweet spot for millions of Midlands residents.

The airport sits in Leicestershire, close to the village of Castle Donington, nestled between three major East Midlands cities.

It is located less than 14 miles (22 km) from Nottingham (around 30 minutes by car), 14 miles (23 km) from Derby, and 20 miles (32 km) from Leicester.

Its proximity to the M1 motorway, between junctions 23a and 24, makes it remarkably easy to reach by road.

For travellers using satellite navigation, the official address is: East Midlands Airport, Castle Donington, Derby, DE74 2SA, United Kingdom.

And for those of you who need the GPS coordinates: Latitude: 52.8311° N | Longitude: 1.3281° W.

This location enables East Midlands Airport to serve as a regional connector, especially for those who don’t want to deal with the traffic and queues that plague London airports.

Transport Links to the Airport

East Midlands Airport is known for its excellent transport connections, whether you’re travelling by car, bus, or rail.

• By Car

The airport is clearly signposted from the M1, A42 and A50. Travellers can choose from several parking options including Short Stay, Long Stay, and Meet & Greet. If you’re wondering where to pick up someone at East Midlands Airport, follow signs to the Short Stay 1 car park, which is just a short walk from arrivals.

• By Bus

The Skylink bus service is an affordable and convenient way to reach the airport. It runs frequent routes to and from Nottingham, Derby, Leicester, Loughborough and Coalville, operating up to 24 hours a day.

• By Train

While the airport doesn’t have a train station on-site, there are two nearby stations – Derby Station and East Midlands Parkway Station, which offers a dedicated bus shuttle directly to the airport terminal. These multimodal connections ensure passengers can reach EMA from across the Midlands with relative ease.

Airlines and Routes: Which Airlines and Routes Does East Midlands Airport Serve

East Midlands Airport is a major base for several budget and charter airlines, making it a very good choice for leisure travellers and sunseekers.

Some of the airlines operating at EMA include Ryanair, Jet2, TUI Airways and EasyJet. The popular destinations you can visit from East Midlands Airport include Spain (Malaga, Alicante, Palma de Mallorca) and Portugal (Faro and Lisbon).

There are frequent flights to Greece (Corfu, Crete, Rhodes), Canary Islands and various cities across Eastern Europe.

Summer months see a huge spike in traffic due to charter holidays and all-inclusive packages, giving families and couples an easy escape without the hassle of larger airports. For travellers on a budget, EMA is an excellent opportunity for low-cost European travel.

Airport Facilities and Services: What to Expect

Despite its modest size, East Midlands Airport offers a wide range of amenities designed for comfort and convenience.

You will find a very good variety of places to buy food and drinks, including Starbucks, Burger King, Flat White Coffee Club and The Castle Rock Tap Room & Kitchen. There are also great shops and retailers, including World Duty Free, WHSmith, Boots, and more.

The Escape Lounge offers a premium pre-flight experience with comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, and free Wi-Fi – an ideal retreat for travelers seeking relaxation before a long journey.

Fast Track Security is another service making your experience better. It is available for passengers who prefer to skip the queues.

Of course, the airport offers a wide range of family facilities, including baby changing areas, children’s zones, and assistance for those travelling with young children.

EMA is also fully equipped for travellers with reduced mobility, including help points, ramps, and assistance staff.

Why Choose East Midlands Airport

The benefits of flying from EMA go well beyond its strategic location. Many passengers choose it specifically for its quicker processing times, smaller crowds, and relaxed atmosphere.

East Midlands Airport is more efficient when it comes to check-in and security screening. It requires less walking distance from check-in to your gate and is ideal for people travelling to and from Nottingham, Derby, and Leicester.

It is considered more budget-friendly and easy to navigate. It also offers ample and secure parking with pre-booking options.

For frequent fliers and families alike, EMA often feels more manageable and less stressful than the UK’s major international airports.

A Smart Alternative for Leisure & Business Travel

In many ways, East Midlands Airport is the smart traveller’s secret – a regional hub that combines convenience with capability.

Whether you’re heading to the beaches of Spain, closing a business deal abroad, or shipping goods across Europe, EMA is strategically placed and well-equipped.

Its central location and easy access make it ideal for both business and leisure. And with the continued development of transport links and on-site services, the airport is only getting better.

To maximise your experience, book your parking space in advance, especially during peak seasons, and check the Skylink bus timetable to ensure a smooth journey.