Manchester Airport (MAN) is one of the busiest airports in the United Kingdom, serving as a primary international gateway in North England. It’s the country’s busiest airport outside of London and a hub for almost 30 airlines flying to nearly 200 destinations across the United Kingdom, Europe, North America, and Asia. The airport is only 20 minutes from the city centre by car, connected to various public transport options, and supported by a range of on-site and off-site car parks. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the airport’s three terminals, the exclusive PremiAir terminal, and provide insights on how to make the most of your time while you wait, including details on airport lounges.
Heading to Manchester Airport soon? Check out our concise guide to MAN, packed with helpful information, travel tips, and useful resources to make your trip smoother. Whether you’re a first-time flyer or a seasoned business traveler, we can help you make the most of your time at Manchester Airport, regardless of your arrival method or departure terminal. Discover everything you need to know about traveling to, from, and around Manchester Airport, including terminal details, transport options, taxis, trains, parking, and more!
Manchester Airport Orientation
Manchester Airport, located approximately 08 Miles southwest of Manchester city centre, is one of the busiest airports in the United Kingdom. It is a crucial hub for domestic and international travel, offering extensive connections across Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond. The airport is well-known for its efficient layout, comprehensive facilities, and excellent passenger services, making it a favoured choice for travellers. Manchester Airport comprises three passenger terminals (Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3) and a dedicated VIP terminal called PremiAir, each providing distinct services and amenities to cater to various passenger needs.
Terminal 1
Terminal 1 is the largest terminal at Manchester Airport and primarily handles international flights. Jet, Jet2.com, and TUI. It boasts many facilities designed to enhance the passenger experience. There is no Check-in Hall. Upon entering, travellers are greeted by a spacious check-in area with numerous desks and self-service kiosks, ensuring quick and efficient processing. The terminal features an array of shops, including duty-free outlets, high-street brands, and speciality stores. Dining options are equally impressive, offering everything from quick bites to gourmet meals. Terminal 1 also provides extensive seating areas, charging stations, and free Wi-Fi, ensuring travellers remain comfortable and connected while waiting for their flights. It houses multiple lounges, such as the Escape Lounge, where passengers can relax more tranquilly.
Terminal 2
Terminal 2, recently expanded and modernized, is critical to Manchester Airport’s growth strategy. Several major international carriers utilize this terminal and offer domestic and global services. Major airlines that arrived/departed from T2 included Air Canada, Cathay Pacific, Eurowings, Oman Air, Pakistan International Airlines, Qatar Airways, Saudia, Singapore, United, and Virgin Atlantic. The departure lounge has a diverse selection of retail outlets, from luxury boutiques to convenience stores, catering to all shopping preferences. Dining choices are abundant, featuring international cuisines and well-known restaurant chains. For those seeking added comfort, Terminal 2 offers premium lounges, including the 1903 Lounge, where guests can enjoy complimentary food and beverages in a serene environment. The terminal also includes family-friendly amenities, such as play areas and baby-changing facilities, ensuring a pleasant experience for travellers with children.
Terminal 3
Terminal 3 primarily serves short domestic and European flights, with airlines such as Air France, British Airways, Iberia, KLM, Loganair, and Ryanair, except American Airlines’ daily flight to Philadelphia. It is favoured for its ease of navigation and quick access to gates. The terminal provides a streamlined check-in process with multiple counters and automated kiosks. Passengers can enjoy a variety of shops and eateries within the departure lounge, from quick service outlets to sit-down restaurants. Terminal 3 also offers complimentary Wi-Fi, ample seating, and charging points, catering to the needs of modern travellers. Additionally, lounges like the Aspire Lounge provide a quiet space with complimentary refreshments and workstations. The compact size and efficient layout of Terminal 3 make it an ideal choice for travellers seeking a swift and hassle-free airport experience.
PremiAir
PremiAir is a VIP Terminal that offers an exclusive experience for £100 per person. Located at the old off-airport lounge on Old Wilmslow Road, you can check in just an hour before departure. Your luggage will be transferred to your terminal ahead of your flight, and you can enjoy fast-track access through security checkpoints. While PremiAir provides a meet-and-greet service with porter assistance. The terminal features elegant lounges, plush seating, fine dining options, and a bar serving premium beverages. PremiAir also provides direct transfers to and from the aircraft in luxury vehicles, allowing passengers to bypass the main terminal areas entirely.
You can take advantage of the airport’s home bag pick-up service, which can be booked through Manchester Airport’s website. Starting at £20 per bag, this service includes the collection of your suitcase from your home at a pre-arranged time, secure sealing, and transport directly to your terminal. This means you can travel with just your hand luggage on departure, and then retrieve your checked bags at Arrivals when you reach your destination.
**Manchester Airport (MAN) Terminal 2 Lounge-Escape Lounges
Airport Lounges
Manchester Airport offers a variety of lounges across its terminals, providing a comfortable and tranquil environment away from the hustle and bustle.
Terminal 1 Lounges
- Escape Lounge offers complimentary food and drinks, free WiFi, and comfortable seating. It is suitable for both leisure and business travellers. Entry costs £25.00 for adults and £18.00 for children, including drinks, snacks, and internet access.
- 1903 Lounge: This is an adults-only lounge that provides a premium experience with various food and beverages, workstations, and panoramic runway views. Entry to 1903 costs £45.00 per person and includes a selection of drinks and warm meals.
- The Emirates Lounge is complimentary for first—and business-class passengers travelling with the airline. Access is available for £120.00 per person for all other passengers.
Terminal 2 Lounges
- The Aspire Lounge is accessible to all passengers. Entry is £25.00 for adults and £18.00 for children, and it includes drinks, snacks, and internet access.
- The V-Room, exclusively available to Virgin Holidays customers, offers lounge entry for £20.00 for adults and £12.00 for children.
Terminal 3 Lounges
- The British Airways Lounge is available to first and business class passengers traveling with British Airways, American Airlines, and Iberia.
- 1903 Lounge: The newest addition to T3 is open to all passengers, provided that they pay the £45.00 cover charge. And offers a premium experience with excellent food, drinks, and comfortable seating.
Eating & Drinking
Manchester Airport offers various dining options to cater to all tastes and preferences. You’ll find something to satisfy your hunger, from quick bites to sit-down meals.
Terminal 1:
- Giraffe: Perfect for families, offering a diverse menu, including burgers, salads, and breakfast options.
- Pret A Manger is ideal for a quick, healthy snack or sandwich, offering plenty of vegetarian and vegan choices.
- The Grain Loft is an excellent spot for a pint and classic British pub food.
Terminal 2:
- The Bridgewater Exchange: A casual dining restaurant offering a range of British classics and international dishes.
- San Carlo Cicchetti: For a taste of Italy, serving small plates is perfect for sharing.
- Costa Coffee is a reliable coffee, pastries, and light snacks option.
Terminal 3:
- Trattoria Milano: Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, including pasta, pizza, and a selection of wines.
- WHSmith Café: Grab a coffee and a snack while waiting for your flight.
**Manchester Airport and Dufry mark official opening of T2 World Duty Free store : Moodie Davitt Report
Duty-Free Shopping:
World Duty-Free: Located in all terminals, offering products, including cosmetics, fragrances, alcohol, and confectionery at tax-free prices.
Fashion & Accessories:
- Hugo Boss (Terminal 1): High-end fashion for both men and women.
- JD Sports (Terminal 2): Popular sportswear and accessories.
Travel Essentials & Gadgets:
- WHSmith: A go-to for books, magazines, snacks, and travel necessities.
- InMotion (Terminal 2): Electronics and gadgets for your travel needs.
Currency Exchange:
- Travelex: Available in all terminals for currency exchange and international money transfers.
WiFi & Internet Access
- Staying connected is easy at Manchester Airport, with free WiFi available throughout all terminals. Here’s how you can access it:
Free WiFi:
Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the terminals for 60 minutes every 24 hours. After the initial free hour, you can connect to a premium service for extended usage and faster downloads. Current Wi-Fi costs are £5.00 for an hour, £10.00 per day, and £30.00 per month. Additionally, all major UK network providers offer good signal coverage in and around the airport, ensuring reliable call connectivity.
Manchester Airport Hotels :
Manchester Airport and its vicinity offer several comfortable hotel options for overnight stays or extended layovers.
- Radisson Blu Hotel: Directly connected to Terminals 1 and 2 via a covered walkway. It offers spacious rooms, a fitness centre, a swimming pool, and several dining options. Address: Chicago Ave, Manchester M90 3RA, UK , Phone: +44 161 490 5000
- Clayton Hotel: Just a short shuttle ride from the terminals. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, a fitness centre, and meeting facilities. Address: 55 Portland St, Manchester M1 3HP, United Kingdom. Phone: +44 161 433 7580
- Crowne Plaza Manchester Airport is close to all terminals and has a free shuttle service. It boasts modern rooms, multiple dining options, and business services. Address: Ringway Rd, Airport, Manchester M90 3NS, United Kingdom. Phone: +44 371 942 9055
- Premier Inn Manchester Airport M56 J6 Runger Lane North hotel: budget-friendly option located a short drive from the airport. It provides comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and parking facilities. Address: Runger Ln, Wilmslow Old Rd, Manchester M90 5DL, United Kingdom. Phone: +44 333 321 1302
**Transportation Option At Manchester Airport (MAN)
Getting to Manchester Airport
Manchester Airport is easily accessible through various modes of transportation, which connect the City with the city and to cities further north in England and Scotland. Trains, trams, buses, and long-distance coaches leave from the station, which is the airport’s public transport hub.
By Train
Travelling to Manchester Airport by train is one of the most efficient and popular options. The airport boasts a dedicated train station, Manchester Airport Station, connected to all three terminals via a covered walkway. Frequent services run from Manchester Piccadilly, the city’s central railway station, with journey times typically around 20 minutes. Additionally, direct train services are available from various cities, including Liverpool, Sheffield, and even as far afield as Edinburgh and London. The train station is well-equipped with amenities such as ticket counters, automated machines, and customer service desks, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.
By Bus
Manchester Airport is well-served by numerous bus routes for those who prefer travelling by bus. Several bus companies, including National Express and Stagecoach, and Bucks Travel offer services to and from the airport, covering many destinations. The 24-hour bus services from Manchester city centre provide a convenient and cost-effective way to reach the airport, especially for travellers with early morning or late-night flights. The main bus stops are at The Station, the airport’s transport interchange, directly linked to all terminals. Additionally, local buses from surrounding areas and towns frequently stop at the airport, making it accessible for regional travellers.
By Tram
The tram, known locally as the Metrolink, is another excellent option for getting to Manchester Airport. The Metrolink service connects the airport to various parts of Manchester and Greater Manchester. The Airport line, which starts from Cornbrook, offers a direct tram service to the airport, with trams running every 12 minutes. The journey from the city centre typically takes around 45 minutes. This mode of transport is particularly favoured by those looking for a straightforward and relatively quick route to the airport, with the added benefit of avoiding potential road traffic.
By Taxi
Taxi travel provides the most direct and flexible option to reach Manchester Airport. Birmingham Airport Taxis are readily available throughout Manchester and can be quickly booked in advance or hailed on the street. The journey from the city centre to the airport usually takes about 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Several taxi companies, Like MiniCabRide LTD, operate in the area, offering various vehicle options, from standard sedans to larger minivans for groups or families. Rideshare services like Uber are also available, providing an alternative to traditional taxis. Taxi ranks are conveniently located outside each terminal, ensuring quick and easy access to your departure point.
**Manchester Airport (MAN) Parking Option
Manchester Airport Parking :
Manchester Airport offers a variety of parking options catering to different needs and budgets. Whether you’re looking for short-term, long-term, or premium parking, the airport provides several convenient choices to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Short-stay Parking: Ideal for dropping off or picking up passengers or for short trips, the Short-stay car parks are located close to the terminals, offering easy access. Fees for Short-Stay parking start at around £6 for up to 30 minutes, rising to approximately £12 for up to an hour and increasing incrementally for longer durations. This option is perfect for quick airport visits, ensuring you can get in and out with minimal hassle.
Long-stay parking:
Long-stay parking provides a cost-effective solution for those travelling for several days or weeks. Located far from the terminals, these car parks offer regular shuttle bus services to and from the airport. The fees for Long-Stay parking start at about £25 per day, with discounts available for pre-booking. This option is suitable for holidaymakers or business travellers who must leave their car for an extended period.
Mid-Stay Parking:
This option bridges the gap between short and long-stay parking and is suitable for trips lasting a few days. Mid-stay car parks are typically closer to the terminals than long-stay options, offering a balance of convenience and affordability. Rates start at around £15 per day, making it a practical choice for medium-length trips.
Meet & Greet Parking:
For the ultimate convenience, Meet and greet services allow you to drop your car off at a designated area near the terminal, where a professional driver will park it. On your return, your vehicle will be waiting for you, minimizing walking and waiting time. This premium service starts at approximately £50 per day and offers a stress-free parking experience.
JetParks:
A budget-friendly option, JetParks is located a bit further from the terminals but provides regular shuttle services. These car parks offer excellent value for money, with daily rates starting at about £12. JetParks are perfect for those looking to save on parking fees while enjoying reliable transport to and from the terminal.
Drop-off and Pick-up Details
Manchester Airport also offers specific areas for quick drop-offs and pick-ups:
Drop-off: Each terminal has designated zones where passengers can pull up and unload luggage. The airport charges £5 for up to five minutes and £6 for up to ten minutes. These zones are strictly monitored to ensure smooth traffic flow, and staying longer than the allowed time can result in additional charges or fines.
Pick-up: Passengers are usually picked up in the Short Stay car parks, where regular parking fees apply. It’s advised to coordinate with arriving passengers to minimize waiting time and parking costs.
Pre-booking and Discounts
Pre-booking is highly recommended to ensure a parking spot and save money. Manchester Airport offers online booking options where you can compare prices, check availability, and secure your parking in advance. Pre-booking often comes with discounts, especially during peak travel seasons, and can provide peace of mind knowing your parking is sorted before you even set off for the airport.
Additional Services
Manchester Airport parking facilities offer additional car washes, valet services, and charging points. These extras can enhance your parking experience and ensure your car is well cared for while you are away.
About MiniCabRide LTD :
MiniCabRide LTD is a Top Airport Transfer company that provides reliable, efficient, and affordable minicab services across the United Kingdom. Renowned for its punctuality and customer-centric approach, MiniCabRide LTD offers well-maintained electric and non-electrical vehicles, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey for every passenger. Whether it’s airport transfers, Seaport Transfers, corporate travel, or everyday commuting, the company caters to all travel needs professionally and courteously. Our easy-to-use online booking system and 24/7 customer support ensure a seamless experience from start to finish. With a focus on excellence and customer satisfaction, MiniCabRide LTD stands out as a trusted manchester taxis choice for convenient and hassle-free travel solutions.
