East Midlands Airport (EMA)
East Midlands Airport serves Nottingham and United Kingdom. 5.2M (2023). Located near Nottingham city centre, it handles domestic and international flights with 1 terminal. Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2, TUI Airways
British Pound (GBP / £) is the local currency at East Midlands Airport.
Terminal layout
East Midlands Airport operates with 1 terminal, handling both domestic and international flights. Check-in counters, security screening, departure gates, and arrivals are all within the same building.
Terminal maps, signage, and information desks are available throughout to assist with navigation. Allow sufficient time for security and boarding, especially during peak hours.
Single terminal — simple navigation
All airlines operate from the same terminal. Follow the colour-coded signage for departures (usually blue/green) and arrivals (usually yellow).
Emergency Numbers
24/7 emergency services in United Kingdom
Border control & customs
Arrival regulations for United Kingdom
On Arrival
- Arrive at arrivalsFollow signs from baggage claim to passport control and customs.
- Passport controlUse the lane that matches your passport and travel status.
- Baggage claimCollect checked bags before proceeding to customs.
- Green / red channelUse green if you have nothing to declare; red if you do.
- Exit the terminalTransport, taxis, and car hire are usually available in the arrivals hall.
Customs — what to know
Check local rules
Always verify duty-free and customs allowances before travelling.
Mobile Connectivity
Local operators & SIM cards in United Kingdom
Passenger tips by type
Practical advice tailored to different traveller profiles passing through East Midlands Airport.
First-time visitors
- Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic and 3 hours before international flights.
- Download the airline app for real-time gate and boarding updates.
- Keep your boarding pass and ID accessible — you'll need them at security and the gate.
Transit & connections
- Check if your connection requires terminal transfer — allow extra time.
- Stay airside if possible to avoid re-clearing security.
- Look for flight connection desks if your incoming flight is delayed.
Families with children
- Family lanes are usually available at security — look for signs.
- Baby changing facilities are located throughout the terminal.
- Bring snacks and entertainment for children during waits.
Business travellers
- Priority security lanes may be available with business-class tickets or elite status.
- Lounge access included with many premium tickets — check your boarding pass.
- Power outlets and USB charging are available at most gates and seating areas.
Airport-specific information
Detailed information about East Midlands Airport terminals, transport, facilities, and local travel tips.
Terminals: Two-level passenger terminal. Ryanair largest airline (50% traffic, third-largest UK airport after Stansted/Manchester). Located near M1/A42/A50 intersection at Donington Park. Serves East Midlands region. Pegasus Business Park on airport grounds.
Transport: East Midlands Parkway railway station 4 miles away (hourly minibus service Elite Cars). Services to Leicester, Derby, Sheffield, Lincoln, Nottingham, London St Pancras. Proposed dedicated railway station (2040). Proposed Nottingham Express Transit line (2045). M1 motorway access. Drop-off charge introduced 2010. Bus services: Kinchbus, Trentbarton, Diamond East Midlands. Jet Parks shuttle.
Facilities: Dining and shopping. Free Wi-Fi.
Local tips: East Midlands primary airport. Ryanair hub. East Midlands Parkway station 4 miles away (hourly minibus). M1 motorway access. Drop-off charge. Compact terminal. Major UK cargo hub.
Airlines & routes
United Kingdom carriers
International carriers
- UK & Ireland: London (LHR/LGW/STN), Dublin (DUB), Manchester (MAN), Edinburgh (EDI), Birmingham (BHX)
- Western Europe: Amsterdam (AMS), Paris (CDG/ORY), Frankfurt (FRA), Madrid (MAD), Barcelona (BCN), Lisbon (LIS)
- Scandinavia: Copenhagen (CPH), Stockholm (ARN), Oslo (OSL), Helsinki (HEL)
Frequently asked questions
For international flights, arrive at least 2–3 hours before departure. Domestic flights typically require 1–2 hours. Allow extra time during peak travel periods and holidays.
Yes, East Midlands Airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal buildings. Look for the airport network on your device and connect without registration for basic access.
East Midlands Airport operates a single terminal handling both domestic and international flights. All check-in, security, gates, and arrivals are within the same building.