Record highs and new horizons: News from Manchester Airport

Buckle up, Cheshire! Smithy and Ian had Manchester Airport’s Head of Media, Mike Murphy-Pyle, spilling the beans on Good Morning Cheshire, and it’s all the travel buzz we need right now.

Record-Breaking Rush

January smashed records as Manchester Airport’s busiest ever, with every month for nearly three years topping previous highs.

Thanks to a £1.3 billion Terminal 2 revamp—now double its original size—the hub handled 32 million passengers last year and eyes 40 million by 2030. Post-COVID wanderlust is real; terminals buzz with happy holidaymakers ready to jet off.

Exciting New Routes

Over 200 destinations and counting, with fresh additions like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangkok last year. Coming soon: Montpellier from March 6th, plus pushes for US West Coast, Japan, South Africa, and more short-haul gems. Mike says if you dream it, they’re plotting the route—choice of times, airlines, and budgets included.

Safety First, Always

A recent TUI plane drill on the runway (volunteers only, no suits packed!) tested fire, ambulance, and police response—flawless, every four years. “Near misses” are overhyped; aviation stops for potholes or dents, never risks. That magic of waving pilots and excited families? Pure airport gold.

Queue-Free Security Tips

91% through in 5 minutes or less last month, 99.9% under 15—new scanners mean no unpacking electronics or liquids (still 100ml max, govt pending).

Pro tip: Check passport condition and 6-month validity; damaged ones get turned away to keep security tight.

Jobs Galore

Regular jobs fairs and a fresh careers festival draw crowds for 25,000 roles across the campus—perfect for all, in-person chats included. Aer Lingus axed long-haul, but Virgin, TUI, and others ramped up Orlando and more—no connectivity dip!