Manchester Airport departures guide including when to arrive, check in tips and bag drop services

The airport experience can be stressful, but there is usually joy as it means your trip is under way. There are aspects of going through the airport that can be overwhelming or just plain confusing, however. 

To combat this, Manchester Airport has put together an ‘all you need to know’ guide for your visit. This includes checking in for your flight, highlighting some of the most common issues and general tips to help get your journey off to a smooth start.

When should I arrive at Manchester Airport?

The check-in process is managed by your airline, rather than the airport, so guidance differs here – but as a general rule, you will need to have checked in and be ready to go through security at least two hours before your flight departure time. For a long haul flight, you might want to consider arriving up to three hours before departure.

Always check your airline’s advice on when to arrive – most will send you an email in the days leading up to your flight which will offer guidance on this and other topics.

How do I find the check-in desk?

Before you set off for the airport, the first and most important step is to make sure you’re headed to the right terminal – and this will again depend on the airline you’re flying with. You can find information on which terminal your airline flies from on the Manchester Airport website.

On arrival at the airport, locate one of the departure boards to find out which check-in desks you need – these are displayed on digital screens in the check-in hall. After you’ve checked in, it is advisable to go to security straight away, to maximise the amount of time you have to relax and prepare for your flight in the departure lounge.

Are there self-service check-in desks? 

The lime green self-service check-in machines are located throughout the terminals at Manchester Airport. The machines are designed to help eliminate queues, allowing you to confirm your booking and print your boarding card. If you have baggage, you can then take it to a bag drop, or if you only have hand baggage you can proceed straight to security.

Can I check in online?

Online check-in offers you the ability to check yourself in from the comfort of your own home, or on the go – although be aware that a printer may be required, depending on your airline’s policy. Once you get to the airport, if you have baggage you can take it to the bag drop, or if you only have hand baggage you can proceed directly to security. Be aware that some airlines charge for checking in at the airport if you have failed to do so online prior to your arrival.

Is there express check-in at Manchester Airport?

Express check-in kiosks can be found in Terminals 1, 2 and 3. There are five steps to using the express check-in kiosks;

• Identify yourself by entering your passport, credit card or e-ticket number;
• Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm your booking;
• Print and collect your boarding card;
• If you have bags, drop them off at one of the special bag drop desks (follow the signs to locate your nearest bag drop kiosk);
• Proceed directly to security.

Can I use Twilight Bag Drop?

Passengers travelling with eligible airlines (including Virgin Atlantic, TUI, Lufthansa, Jet2.com, Ryanair and easyJet) can drop their bags off at the airport the night before they fly – and can now benefit from free parking at one of the airport car parks to do so.

You can take a token at the entry barrier and proceed to check-in and drop off your bags. Attend the ticket desk with your boarding pass and car park token to validate your token. Return your token at the exit barrier when you leave the car park, and the barrier will rise.