General Information About Manchester Airport

Manchester Airport is an internationally significant transport hub and one of the busiest airports in the UK, forming an integral part of Greater Manchester and contributing over PS2bn annually in economic value creation, supporting many different industries and providing opportunities.

Manchester Airport Holdings (MAG), commonly referred to by its acronym, operates the Airport. Owned and managed by Australian investment house IFM Investors as well as Greater Manchester's metropolitan borough councils with Manchester City Council owning the majority share. Formerly known as Ringway Airport during World War II, its civilian operation dates back nearly 70 years.

Terminal 1 at London Stansted Airport is the largest of three terminals, serving airlines that conduct scheduled and charter operations to European and worldwide destinations. Comprising 24 stands (14 of which have airbridges), this terminal can handle over 11 million passengers annually.

Current upgrades at the terminal totalling PS1 billion form part of an ongoing 10-Year Airport Expansion project which will see construction of both Terminal 2 and an integrated public transport interchange.

Beyond its new terminal, there are also a series of major construction projects at the Airport that include an Air Traffic Control Tower, education centre, PS3 million investment in railway station infrastructure, and P1bn for overhaul of Terminal 2.

The airport lies about 10 miles south of the University of Manchester campus and can be easily accessed using local buses and taxis from Piccadilly or Oxford Road stations.

How to Get From Manchester Airport to Manchester Center

Reaching Manchester center from Manchester Airport is simple with various transport options available to you, such as Train, Bus, Taxi and Uber services.

Take a Train From Manchester Airport to Manchester Piccadilly

One of the quickest ways from Manchester Airport to the city center is using one of the trains from Manchester Piccadilly station operated by TransPennine Express or Northern Rail, running every 10 minutes Monday-Sunday throughout normal business hours and providing quick transfers from early flights into town.

Manchester Metrolink tram and light rail network is also an option, operating directly to the airport from several stations around town. Moovit helps you find the fastest route from where you are currently located directly to the terminal in time for your flight.

An alternative method is Skyline buses provided through a partnership between Manchester Airport, Stagecoach Manchester Trent and Arriva North West. These connect the airport with city centres via routes 18 (Intu Trafford Centre), 43, 44 and 103 respectively.

Buses often operate through the night to help you catch an earlier flight than via train; however, their schedules and convenience cannot compare; therefore be sure to book tickets as early as possible.

Trams provide another convenient option that runs throughout the night and features quicker travel than buses; ticket prices are comparable with trains but your journey may take longer.

Travel from the Manchester airport directly into the city center via metrolink in under an hour using its routes that connect Piccadilly, Old Trafford and University of Manchester.

Service is fully accessible for individuals with limited mobility, with certain platforms at Piccadilly station having raised entrances and the tram network being step-free. Metrolink buses also feature ramps; additionally many city center bus lines provide wheelchair spaces.

Public transportation options exist between the airport and city center, including National Express coach services which depart directly from the airport terminals to drop passengers directly at their terminal doors. Some services can even be booked online with discounts available when pre-booking in advance.

How to Take a Taxi From Manchester Airport

For quick and convenient airport-city centre transport, consider paying extra for a taxi ride. Compare fares across multiple companies until you find the ideal fare deal for yourself.

Manchester is an energetic city located in Northern England renowned for its live music venues, shopping centers, diverse cuisine and iconic football team - Manchester United. At Etihad Stadium you can experience their rich history as well as see artifacts related to them; tours also allow visitors to get close up views of both their tunnel and players' dugout if available.

Manchester Airport Amenities & Services

At Manchester Airport, we aim to make your arrival or departure as enjoyable and relaxing as possible. Take advantage of free shuttle transport between arrivals and departures, plus free Wi-Fi throughout your visit.

Food & Beverages:

At the airport you can find all your usual dining and beverage options, from bars, cafes, and restaurants to the Spar Grocery Store (located in all three terminals) which has hot/cold sandwiches, take-away meals, general groceries, etc.

Luggage Storage:

Need somewhere safe and cost-effective to keep your luggage during your trip? Excess Baggage lockers at all three terminals offer secure, cost-effective storage solutions starting at PS5 per item per 24 hour period with rates available for short or long term needs.

Family Services at Manchester Airport: If your children are with you, they're sure to appreciate the family services at Manchester Airport. From watching television at the Children's TV Zone and fast lane security checkpoint service through security, your children will enjoy themselves.

Parking: When traveling without a car, booking short or mid-stay airport parking spaces is the perfect solution for quick trips; these spaces are only a three to ten minute walk away from the terminal building.

Hotels Near and within Airport Facilities: Looking for a great place to rest after your flight? Check out Radisson Blu Hotel Manchester Airport; it features four room types from standard to suites and family. Plus, its location provides easy shuttle service!