East Midlands Airport
East Midlands Airport general information
If you’re flying from East Midlands Airport, we’ve collected the ‘must-know’ information you’ll need in one easy-to-read guide.
East Midlands Airport parking
Travellers arriving by car can choose from several parking arrangements, including short-stay, long-stay, and meet-and-greet services. The most suitable option depends on the length of your trip, the location of the car park, and your preferred transfer arrangements.
View airport parkingEast Midlands Airport Meet & Greet
Meet-and-greet parking allows travellers to hand over their vehicle at a designated airport location before continuing to the terminal. Collection points, vehicle handover procedures, and return arrangements vary by operator. Find further information about meet-and-greet services in our
View airport meet & greetAll about East Midlands Airport
East Midlands Airport is located near Castle Donington in Leicestershire, serving passengers from Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire and surrounding areas. Opened in 1965, the airport has developed into an important regional gateway for leisure and business travel, as well as a major UK air freight hub. Passengers can access a range of facilities within the terminal, including shops, restaurants, cafés, security services and passenger assistance.
The airport is accessible via the M1 and A453, with bus and coach connections to nearby towns and cities. This guide covers the essential information passengers may need before travelling, from check-in arrangements and transport connections to accessibility and terminal facilities.
Getting There
East Midlands Airport is accessible by car, bus, coach and taxi. Although there is no railway station within the passenger terminal, nearby railway stations offer onward bus connections.
By car
The airport is close to Junction 23A of the M1 and the A453, making it accessible from Derby, Nottingham, Leicester and surrounding areas.
Allow additional travel time during busy periods and check your route before leaving home.
By bus and coach
Skylink bus services connect East Midlands Airport with nearby towns and cities, including Derby, Nottingham and Leicester. Services and frequencies vary by route.
Check the latest timetables before travelling.
By train
There is no direct passenger train service to the airport terminal. Travellers can use nearby railway stations, including Derby, Nottingham and Long Eaton, and continue by bus or taxi.
Visit the East Midlands Airport train travel guide for connections and journey planning.
Check-in information
Check-in procedures at East Midlands Airport vary by airline, destination, and ticket type. Passengers should follow their airline's recommended arrival time and check whether online check-in is available. If you have hold luggage, you may still need to visit a baggage-drop desk after checking in online. Once checked in, follow signs for security and the departure lounge. Use this list of airlines flying from East Midlands Airport to check if your carrier offers online check-in.
Destinations
East Midlands Airport offers flights to a variety of domestic and international destinations, including popular European holiday locations. Routes and flight frequencies vary by airline and season, with additional services sometimes available during peak holiday periods. Check the full list of routes from East Midlands Airport here - or take a look at the destinations map.
Disabled Passenger Details
East Midlands Airport provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, disabilities and additional accessibility requirements. Passengers requiring special assistance should contact their airline or travel provider in advance so that suitable arrangements can be made. Support may include assistance through the terminal, help reaching departure gates, and assistance with boarding. Passengers with hidden disabilities can also check the airport's current guidance on available support.
Top Tip
Request special assistance through your airline at least 48 hours before departure, where possible. Confirm any specific mobility, communication or medical equipment requirements in advance.
Fast-Track security lane
East Midlands Airport offers a Security FastTrack service that allows eligible passengers to use a dedicated security lane. FastTrack can provide a more convenient route through security, although all passengers must complete the required screening procedures. Availability, operating hours, and prices may vary.. Book your place in the Express Lane here.
Top Tip
If travelling during a busy holiday period, check FastTrack availability before your departure date. FastTrack does not replace the need to arrive at the airport in good time.
Pushchairs and Child Seats
Families travelling with babies or young children should check their airline's rules for pushchairs, car seats and other child equipment. Most airlines have specific arrangements for transporting these items, including whether pushchairs can be used until boarding. Airport staff can provide guidance on where equipment should be checked in or handed over.
Top Tip
Check whether your airline allows a pushchair to be taken to the aircraft gate. Attach identification labels and consider a protective travel bag for child equipment.
Family Assisted Lanes
Families travelling with young children should follow the airport's standard security procedures unless directed to a dedicated assistance facility. Availability of family-specific lanes or additional support may vary. Passengers requiring extra assistance should contact the airport or their airline before travelling.
Top Tip
Prepare liquids, electronic devices and children's belongings according to current security guidance. Allow additional time when travelling with babies or young children.
Shopping
East Midlands Airport has a selection of retail outlets offering travel essentials, gifts, accessories, and other products. Shopping facilities are primarily located within the passenger terminal, including the departures area. Store availability and opening times can vary according to flight schedules. Here’s a full list of the shops at East Midlands Airport and whether they’re located before or after security.
Top Tip
Check whether the items you need are available before travelling. Airport shop opening times may differ from normal high-street hours.
Where to Eat
East Midlands Airport offers a selection of cafés, restaurants and other food outlets for passengers travelling through the terminal. Options may include hot meals, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments, depending on the time of day and which outlets are operating. Here's a full list of places to eat at East Midlands Airport.
Top Tip
If you have specific dietary requirements, check the available food outlets before travelling. Some restaurants may offer allergen information or alternative menu options.
Area for Kids
Families travelling through East Midlands Airport can access passenger facilities designed to make journeys with children more manageable. Dedicated play facilities may change over time, so check current availability before travelling. Parents should allow time for toilet breaks, refreshments, and other essentials before boarding.
Top Tip
Pack small games, books or downloaded entertainment to keep children occupied while waiting for your flight.
Wi-Fi access
East Midlands Airport provides free Wi-Fi for passengers using the terminal. Wireless connectivity allows travellers to check flight information, access boarding passes, and stay in touch while waiting for departure. Follow the connection instructions displayed at the airport to access the available network. For more details on charges and how to connect, click here.
Top Tip
Download important travel documents before arriving at the airport so they remain accessible even if you experience connection problems.
Mobile Devices
Passengers can use mobile phones and other electronic devices within the airport, subject to normal security and airline restrictions. Charging facilities may be available in designated terminal areas, although availability can vary. Passengers should check airline rules on the use of electronic devices during boarding and flights.
Baby Changing
Baby-changing facilities are available within East Midlands Airport's passenger terminal. These facilities help families travelling with infants manage their needs before departure or after arrival. Follow terminal signage to locate the nearest facilities.
Top Tip
Keep nappies, wipes, spare clothing and other essentials in your hand luggage so they are easily accessible throughout your journey.
Luggage Trolleys
Luggage trolleys are available at designated areas of East Midlands Airport to help passengers transport their bags. Availability, collection points, and any applicable charges may change. Follow airport signage or ask terminal staff for assistance if required. You can find all the essential information here.
Top Tip
If travelling with several large bags, check where luggage trolleys are available before unloading your vehicle.
Luggage Lockers
Passengers requiring luggage storage should check whether suitable left-luggage facilities are currently available at East Midlands Airport. Storage arrangements can change, and passengers should not assume that luggage lockers are provided within the terminal. Contact the airport directly for the latest information.
Pharmacies
Passengers needing medication, toiletries or other health-related essentials should check the current retail facilities available at East Midlands Airport. The range of products and services may be limited compared with a high-street pharmacy. For urgent medical needs, seek advice from an appropriate healthcare provider before travelling.
Top Tip
Carry essential prescription medication in your hand luggage, preferably in its original packaging, and check any destination-specific medication restrictions
Showers
Public shower facilities are not generally listed among the standard passenger amenities at East Midlands Airport. Travellers requiring shower facilities should check directly with the airport or nearby accommodation providers before making arrangements.
Chapel
East Midlands Airport provides a multi-faith prayer room for passengers and visitors seeking a quiet place for prayer or reflection. The facility is intended to welcome people of different faiths and beliefs. Check the airport's current terminal information for the prayer room location and access arrangements.
Viewing Areas
If you’re an aviation fan, then head the Aeropark at East Midlands Airport. Find out about the history of the airport and take a look around the 26 static aircraft displays. It also offers various viewing 'mounds' to watch planes taking off and landing on the live runway. Entry is £3.00 for adults and £1.00 for children – under 5s get in free.
Airport map
Castle Donington, Derby, DE74 2SA