Major upgrade work to see runway closures at East Midlands Airport on select winter dates

East Midlands Airport will shut its runway on a number of winter dates to carry out major upgrades to its airfield.

The airport said the project will deliver “significant improvements” to taxiways, lighting systems, and the central apron, where passenger aircraft park.

According to officials, the work is intended to strengthen day-to-day operations and ensure the airfield is equipped for future demand.

Runway closures are planned from 10am to 6pm on several Wednesdays over the winter.

Flights have been arranged around these periods to limit disruption. The runway will be closed on 10 December, 17 December, 7 January, 14 January, 21 January, 28 January, 4 February and 11 February.

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As part of a wider £120m investment programme, the airport will carry out a full redesign of the central apron. The new layout will make better use of space and speed up aircraft turnaround times. Four additional stands will also be added, increasing the total number available for passenger aircraft to 28.

Taxiway Bravo is set for a complete upgrade too. The airport describes the route as a “critical artery” that links the runway with the west apron, which handles heavy cargo aircraft. The improvements will bring it in line with the latest standards and allow it to support a broader mix of aircraft.

The programme also includes upgrades to electrical substations, routine maintenance on the runway, taxiways and aprons, and improvements to drainage and hydrant systems.

All work will take place in daylight to allow crews to complete tasks more safely and efficiently. The airport said it has coordinated closely with airlines to keep passenger disruption as low as possible.