Are there Manchester Airport queues today? Advice on fast track security, airport hotels and airport lounges

The latest Manchester Airport news today, with travel advice on security waiting times, terminals and when to check-in, as we approach the busy Easter holiday period.
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If you are heading to Manchester Airport, arriving with plenty of time ahead of your flight is key. The airport recommends you arrive at the earliest possible time in order to be ready for your flight.

At the start of the year, thousands of passengers took up a flight from Manchester Airport to escape the post-Christmas gloom. Since April, new flights to Mainland China and Las Vegas have been announced from Manchester, meaning many more opportunities to fly around the world.

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Manchester Airport officials have since acknowledged that the number of passengers passing through the airport continues to be high.

What has the airport said?

Around 1.7m passengers used Manchester Airport in February 2023 and its most popular destination was Dubai.

Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director at Manchester Airport, said: “It’s fantastic to see so many travellers choosing to fly through Manchester Airport and passenger numbers returning to normal shows how far we’ve come.

“It’s also interesting to see how the landscape has changed with more people looking to travel long-haul than previously. It confirms Manchester Airport’s role as the UK’s global gateway in the North – whether you’re flying to Europe or going further afield.”

Planes at Manchester AirportPlanes at Manchester Airport
Planes at Manchester Airport

When should I arrive at Manchester Airport?

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An airport spokesman advised people to ‘arrive at the earliest time your airline recommends.’

You can find this by checking the individual airline’s website and searching for your route, but the general advice from the airport is to arrive three hours early - but not more than that. You can also speed up the process by checking in online in advance on your airline’s website or on their app. Many permit online check-in until up to two hours before your flight.

Some airlines - including Jet2 and Easyjet - are offering twilight bag drop services at Manchester Airport, so you can drop off check-in luggage the evening before to smooth the process on the day, but not all airlines do this - you need to check on your airline’s website baggage page in advance for details. TUI has introduced day-before bag drops between 4pm and 9pm at Terminal 2 recently on eligible flights starting with a TOM flight number: see here for more.

And, of course, travelling only with carry-on luggage can speed up your passage through airport - as long as your hand baggage complies with your airline’s size policies and you are not carrying any forbidden items such as liquids over 100ml - see the Government website here for an overview of these items, plus check out our handy guide to how to help your hand luggage get through security faster here.

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Make sure your contact details on your airline booking are up to date too, so your airline can try to alert you to any significant changes or known disruption.

And finally, check which of three terminals your flight departs from and arrives into ahead of your trip, to make sure you get to the correct terminal in good time: this information should be in your flight booking on the boarding pass, and is also on the terminal checker here on the airport’s own website.

Terminal Three fully reopened again from Friday 22 April which has meant some airlines have changed which terminal they operate from: see here for which airlines that impacts.

How do I buy fast-track security passes for Manchester Airport and how much does fast track security cost?

You can usually buy fast-track security passes, which give you access to a priority lane, in advance by booking them on the airport’s website here from £4. However, some passengers have found them sold out at peak times so you are advised to book well in advance, or check for alternative times.

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You can also buy a Passport Control fast-track pass for those returning into Manchester Airport across all three terminals and this costs from £4.

Is there a lounge at Manchester Airport?

The Escape Lounge is open to all passengers and you don’t need a first-class ticket as you can book a space in advance for Terminal One or Terminal Two or Terminal Three here. There is also the 1903 lounge at Terminal Two which can also be booked here.

Prices start at £24 but be warned that the lounges can book up some time in advance.

The Escape Lounge at Manchester Airport terminal twoThe Escape Lounge at Manchester Airport terminal two
The Escape Lounge at Manchester Airport terminal two

Are there hotels at the airport?

Yes, there are a number to choose from, including the Radisson Blu, Crowne Plaza, Marriott and Hilton, all within close range of the terminals.

You can see a fuller list and check distance here.

How do I book special assistance travel at Manchester Airport?

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If you need special assistance at the airport, it’s advised you contact your airline at least 48 hours before your journey with your individual needs, including whether you are bringing your own mobility aids or assistance dog. The airline will then liaise with the airport’s special assistance team about your trip.

However, Shirley Valentine, a special assistance agent, said: “If you are unable to book your assistance prior to 48 hours before your travel, don’t worry. The airport can still assist you, although there may be more of a wait, especially at busy times. On your arrival, just report to the Special Assistance reception points, located in the check-in halls. Ask one of the airport’s customer service team, who patrol the terminals in orange hi-vis vests, for help or directions if needed.”

Sunflower lanyards can also be requested from the special assistance desk if needed and there are designated quiet spaces at Terminals One and Three.

You can find out more about assisted travel on the airport’s website here.