Manchester Airport Shares Tips for Record Summer Travel

Manchester Airport is expecting its busiest summer yet, with over 5 million passengers set to pass through the UK’s third-largest airport during the school holidays. To help travelers navigate the busy season, the airport has shared practical tips, highlighting its new Terminal 2 upgrades, including a new security hall, advanced scanners, check-in desks, and expanded retail and dining options.

Since April, 97% of passengers cleared security in under 10 minutes, with 84% in under five, and the airport expects these standards to hold throughout the peak period thanks to increased staffing levels and streamlined processes like the new barrierless drop-off system.

Top Travel Tips

• Pack smart: Use hand luggage for shorter trips to save money. Roll clothes to maximize space and check airline baggage rules before traveling.

• Check in early: Many airlines allow online check-in weeks ahead. Travelers with only hand luggage can go directly to security.

• Evening bag drop: If local, some airlines let passengers drop bags the night before departure, with free parking available.

• Arrive early: Two hours for short-haul flights, three hours for long-haul.

• Plan ahead: Factor in road traffic or use Manchester’s dedicated train, tram, and bus station for easier access.

• Parking and drop-off: Pre-book parking for the best rates, or use the free JetParks 1 drop-off area with a 24/7 shuttle to terminals.

• FastTrack options: Book Security FastTrack, Passport Control FastTrack, or TimeSlot for smoother processing.

• Assistance needs: Pre-book assistance via your airline or travel agent up to 48 hours before your flight for quicker service.

• Children and comfort: Prepare kids for the airport experience, pack entertainment, and bring drinks and snacks in case of delays.

At the Airport

Travelers should prepare for security as usual, even though new CT scanners mean liquids and electronics often don’t need to be removed yet. Families passing through Terminal 1 can enjoy the Little Flyers Zone, while all three terminals offer a wide range of dining options and digital kiosks to help with navigation.

The walk to gates can take up to 15 minutes, so passengers should keep an eye on departure screens and use moving walkways to stay on schedule. Free water refill stations are available across terminals.

Jennifer Byrne-Smith, Manchester Airport’s Director of Customer Operations, emphasized:

“We’re proud to connect the North to the world and to make summer travel as seamless as possible. By planning ahead and using our new facilities, travelers can make their holiday start at the airport.”

Top Summer Destinations

Most popular short and medium-haul destinations:
Antalya (Turkey), Dublin, Amsterdam, Palma de Mallorca, Dalaman, Alicante, Dubai, Paris, Tenerife, Doha.

Most popular long-haul destinations:
Orlando, New York, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Addis Ababa.

This summer also marks new milestones, including the launch of IndiGo flights to Mumbai (the North’s only direct connection to India) and the upcoming direct service to Bangkok with Norse Atlantic Airways, starting in November – the only UK route outside London.