Airport Tips & Quick Reference Guide to Manchester International Airport (MAN) - Non Official

Manchester Airport Terminal 1

All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides, since 1999.

Manchester Airport Terminal 1 is the largest and oldest terminal at MAN, serving as the main hub for scheduled and charter flights to Europe and destinations worldwide. It is designed to handle a high volume of passengers and offers a wide range of facilities and services to ensure a comfortable journey for everyone.​

Terminal In1 Manchester Airport
Terminal 1 Manchester Airport

Terminal Layout and Levels

Terminal 1 is divided into several levels, each serving different purposes:

  • Level 0: This is the Arrivals area, where passengers exit after landing. Some lower gates are also located here.
  • Level 3: The main check-in and departures area, with separate access points to boarding gates 1 to 15, 20 to 32, and 34 to 36. This is where most passengers begin their journey.
  • Level 4: The mezzanine level, which houses several lounges and additional facilities.

Walking Distances and Transfers

The terminal is large, and walking distances can be significant. On average, it takes about 3 to 6 minutes to walk from security to the gates. Terminal 1 is connected to Terminal 2 via an elevated Skylink walkway, making transfers between these terminals quick and convenient. To reach Terminal 3, passengers can use a shuttle bus or walk, depending on their needs.​

Allow extra time for walking, especially if you have a connecting flight or are travelling with children or heavy luggage.

Services and Facilities

Terminal 1 offers a comprehensive range of services to enhance your travel experience:

  • Shops and Duty Free
  • Restaurants and cafeterias
  • Trolleys
  • VAT refunds
  • Currency exchange
  • ATMs
  • Fast Track security lanes
  • Information desk
  • Multi-faith prayer room
  • Internet desks
  • Left luggage and baggage facilities
  • Breastfeeding facility
  • Transportation access (including taxis, buses, and the Metrolink tram)
  • Lost and Found desk
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Use the information desk if you need directions or assistance with any of the services.

Lounges

Terminal 1 features several lounges, each offering a range of amenities:

  • Aspire Lounge: Open from 5:00am to 5:00pm, providing snacks, Wi-Fi, TV, and drinks.
  • Etihad Airways First & Business Class Lounge: Open from 3.5 hours before the first departure until the last departure of the day, offering premium food, snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, showers, TV, internet terminals, and a children’s area.
  • Escape Lounge: Open from 5:00am to 5:00pm, with food, snacks, Wi-Fi, drinks, TV, and internet terminals.
  • The Emirates Lounge: Offering snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, newspapers and magazines, TV, and telephones.
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Lounge access is a great way to relax and enjoy extra comfort, especially during long waits or early morning flights.

Additional Tips

- If you are travelling with children, take advantage of the breastfeeding facilities and children’s play areas.
- Use the Fast Track service to save time during busy periods.
-Check the airport’s website or information desk for the latest updates on walking times and terminal changes.