Manchester Airport Terminals
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, originally known as Ringway Airport, has a rich history dating back to the 1930s. The site was chosen in 1934, with construction beginning in November 1935 and the airport officially opening on June 25, 1938. It was initially used for civil aviation but played a crucial role during World War II as RAF Ringway, serving as a base for the Royal Air Force and for military aircraft production and training. After the war, it reverted to civilian use and expanded rapidly, becoming Britain’s second-busiest airport by the 1960s. Today, it is owned and managed by Manchester Airports Group (MAG), a consortium of Greater Manchester councils and the Australian finance firm IFM Investors.
Located about 9 miles (14 km) south-west of Manchester city centre, the airport is situated in the historic Cheshire parish of Ringway. Its strategic position provides easy access to the city and surrounding regions, with excellent rail, road, and bus connections. The airport’s location has allowed it to grow over the decades, with expansions that have brought parts of its infrastructure back into Cheshire, especially with the addition of the second runway.
Terminal 1
Terminal 1 serves charter flights to Europe and the rest of the world. Note that it is a multi-purpouse building. Is the original main terminal, has undergone several upgrades and is known for its classic design.
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Terminal 2
Opened in 1993 and extensively modernized in recent years, is considered the most modern and efficient, featuring state-of-the-art facilities, shopping, and dining. Terminal 2 handles both domestic and international flights. It is nowadays under major renovations works.
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Terminal 3
Terminal 3 stands for the domestic terminal at Manchester Airport. British Airways is the main operator. Is smaller and mainly serves low-cost carriers. The terminals are interconnected and within walking distance, making transfers between them convenient for passengers.
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Transfer between terminals
Terminals 1 and 2 are connected through the Skylink walkway. Terminal 3 is accessible by a shuttle bus or on foot.
