Bumper half term predicted for Manchester Airport as travel testing restrictions ease

Manchester Airport is once again gearing up for a busy February Half Term, with most Covid-19 restrictions dropped for fully-vaccinated travellers from Friday 11 February.

More than 600,000 passengers are set to fly through during the school holidays, and passengers are reminded to check the rules for the country they are going to, and be prepared for their airport journey. Manchester Airport is also launching a major recruitment drive as holidaymakers set to take to the skies once again after the easing of pandemic measures.

Karen Smart, Managing Director of Manchester Airport, said:

“After nearly two years of restrictions on travel, couples and families alike are finally free to take a holiday abroad without having to worry about expensive tests or the risk of getting stuck in another country. We anticipate a very busy Half Term, but we are excited to welcome so many people back to our airport.

“We are also aware that for many of those travelling through Manchester Airport, it will be the first time they’ve done so since before the pandemic, so we encourage passengers to make sure they’re fully prepared.”

If you are heading off for a break this Half Term there are a number of things you can do to ensure your journey from Manchester Airport goes smoothly:

• Ensure products in your hand luggage containing liquids, gels or pastes are in a clear, resealable bag and don’t exceed 100ml each. This includes, among other things, perfume, aftershave, make-up, beverages and condiments such as jams and butter
• If in doubt about any particular items, pack them in your checked hold luggage, rather than in hand luggage
• Take off coats / jackets and other winter wear before reaching security to help save time
• If you or someone in your party has reduced mobility, book any airline assistance you require in advance to avoid delays
• Have all your required documentation to hand and ensure that you have read all relevant government travel advice before your journey.
• When returning to the UK, ensure you have all relevant documentation to hand required at the border, including your passenger locator form. If you are not fully vaccinated you may also need to provide proof of a negative Covid-19 test and a booked post-arrival PCR test.

As people look to travel once again after the pandemic, there are plenty of destinations in easy reach of Manchester Airport for either a family half-term getaway or a romantic break over the Valentine’s Day Weekend.

Alicante – One of Spain’s oldest coastal resort cities, Alicante offers not only long stretches of white sand beaches but plenty of culture as well. The winding streets of its old town, with its towering Moorish-era castle, capture the imagination of young and old alike. Return flights over February Half Term with easyJet.

Tenerife – Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, bills itself as the ‘Island of a Thousand Experiences’. Beyond its famous beaches and crystal clear waters, the Teide National Park is the most visited park in Europe. Family-friendly activities include the impressive Loro Parque aquarium. Direct return flights with Ryanair from Manchester to Tenerife.

Madeira – This sun soaked Atlantic island boasts everything from hiking to sailing and scuba diving to paragliding, as well as volcanic black sand beaches. Let the kids adventure whilst you take some time to make the most of the sun. Fly return to Madeira’s capital Funchal with Tui.

Enfidha – Enfidha is the gateway to Tunisia’s famed coastal resorts, which offer some of the finest beaches on the Mediterranean. Camel rides into the Sahara offer an unforgettable family experience. You can bag return flights from Manchester to Enfidha with Tui.

Orlando – The ‘Sunshine State’ of Florida is a Mecca for thrill-seekers, with an abundance of family activities to suit all ages. Orlando itself is home to no fewer than four theme parks, with plenty to keep visitors occupied. A direct return trip to Orlando this Half Term is available from Aer Lingus.

Venice – Venice has been the epitome of a romantic destination for centuries. Its weaving canals, the love locks of the Rialto bridge and its stunning architecture provide the perfect backdrop for a Valentine’s weekend getaway and Verona, the setting for Romeo and Juliet, is within easy reach for a day trip. Fly return to Venice with Jet2.com.

Paris – The ‘City of Light’ is one of Europe’s most popular spots for a romantic getaway and it’s easy to see why. Stroll the boulevards, take a champagne cruise along the Seine and when it comes to finding a romantic dinner venue afterwards, you will be spoilt for choice. Visit with Ryanair this Valentine’s weekend.

Barcelona – The capital of Spain’s Catalonia region might not be the first option that jumps to mind when looking for a romantic break, but it offers a wealth of historic gems, inspiring art, designer shops and vibrant nightlife. Fly return with Ryanair.

New York – The ‘City that Never Sleeps’ offers everything from ice skating to intimate dining venues with incredible views. For an alternative romantic NYC experience, check out Harlem’s laid-back jazz bar scene. Fly direct to the Big Apple over Valentine’s weekend with Virgin Atlantic.

Prague – The Czech capital’s cobbled streets, stunning castle and beautiful outdoor spaces make it perfect for a Valentine’s weekend stroll. It is also increasingly gaining prominence for its culinary offering, and its bar scene is world-renowned. Jet2.com offers a generous 22kg baggage allowance to Prague from Manchester Airport.