Airport has 150 vacancies up for grabs this month

EAST Midlands Airport is hiring more than 150 staff to work in its security, car parks and passenger services teams as it anticipates a strong recovery in travel.

Last week’s easing of temporary travel restrictions, which were introduced in response to the new covid Omicron variant, has delivered a boost to the travel sector, with consumer confidence rising and bookings surging, according to airlines and travel firms, says the Castle Donington airport.

The airport’s recruitment drive is in anticipation of what is expected to be a busy summer season for passenger travel.

Filling vacant security officer roles is first on the agenda for the airport, while other vacancies will be advertised in the coming weeks, said a spokesperson.

The aviation sector was hard hit by the pandemic as thousands of flights were grounded. However, a strong and rapid recovery is expected, and East Midlands Airport is forecasting that passenger numbers this year will reach 75 to 80 per cent of pre-pandemic levels. If this is achieved, 2022 will be the busiest year for passengers since pre-covid.

The passenger airlines that serve the airport - Ryanair, JET2, TUI, easyjet, and Aurigny - fly holidaymakers to popular hotspots across mainland Europe, Eastern Europe and North Africa. The busiest months for passenger travel are April to October during which time two-thirds of annual travellers use the airport.

People interested in finding out more about what it is like to work at the airport can join a virtual jobs fair from 10am to noon on Tuesday, February 1.

The recruitment team will attend Jobcentre Plus’s virtual jobs fair on January 26.

Clare James, managing director, said: “After two of the most disruptive years in the history of aviation, I am confident that we will turn a corner in 2022.

“People’s appetite for overseas travel remains undiminished. East Midlands Airport, which is the perfect gateway for holidaymakers who want to be at the poolside, on the beach or ski slopes as quickly as possible with very little hassle, will see a surge in passenger demand this year.

“We need to ensure that we have the right people in our team to be ready for this so that passengers have a positive start to their trip and that we continue providing a welcoming service for those who enjoy the ease of using our airport.”

For more details, visit careers. magairports.com