2010 is a Record Year for Cargo
East Midlands Airport said it has had its busiest year ever for handling cargo.
306,977 tonnes of freight was flown in and out of the Castle Donington-based airport during 2010.
The airport, which is just 46 years old, now has almost 40% of the UK 'pure' cargo market - that is cargo carried on dedicated cargo aircraft - and it continues to grow.
Bill Blanchard, East Midlands Airport cargo manager, said: "East Midlands Airport is a key part of the glue that links together global industry."
He added: "As the UK comes out of recession, the air freight sector will play an increasingly important role in supporting UK businesses engaged in high value sectors of the economy.
"Already almost 40% of UK trade with non-EU countries by value is transported by air and East Midlands Airport's prime location, its expertise and enviable reputation will continue to give it a competitive advantage."
Airport bosses said it was the main UK hub for worldwide express carriers DHL & UPS with daily connections to the US, Middle East and Far East as well as numerous destinations in the UK, Ireland and Europe. East Midlands Airport is also the UK's premier hub for air operations by Royal Mail with over 2 million 1st class items passing through their EMA Hub each weekday night.