MAG announces £440 million investment in final phase of Manchester Airport Transformation Programme

Manchester Airports Group (MAG) has announced a £440 million investment in Manchester Airport in a bid to unlock billions of pounds for the Northern economy.

The investment is the final face of a 10-year £1.3 billion transformation programme being implemented at Manchester Airport, which has included the recent renovation of Terminal 2.

The investment will transform the passenger experience at the UK’s third largest airport, with new spacious facilities, state-of-the-art technology and equipment, and an exciting array of shops, bars, restaurants and airport lounges. It will see Manchester Airport expand its role as the UK’s global gateway in the North, connecting the region to even more international destinations, including some of the world’s most important economic markets.

This latest investment will complete the transformation of Terminal 2, delivering improvement to all stages of the passenger journey – from check-in to baggage reclaim – as well as upgrading its airfield for next generation aircraft. Upon completion in 2025, around 80% of all passengers will use the expanded Terminal 2, with Terminal 1 set to close – 63 years after it was opened by the Duke of Edinburgh, in 1962.

More than 500 jobs will be created in the construction phase alone, while independent analysis shows around 16,400 extra jobs will be generated by 2040 as a result of the economic activity stimulated by the expansion of the airport and its route network. The same research – by York Aviation – reveals that Manchester Airport’s current contribution to the Northern economy of £3.5 billion is expected to soar by nearly 80%, to £6.3 billion by 2040 as a result of the full delivery of the transformation programme.

And a further £2.9 billion boost will be triggered through the increased productivity of businesses travelling and trading globally through Manchester over the same period.

Charlie Cornish, CEO of MAG, said:

“Manchester Airport is a key economic asset for the North, and this investment will maximise the contribution it makes to creating a balanced and globally competitive UK economy.

“Our £1.3bn transformation programme demonstrates our long-term commitment to providing a great airport experience for passengers who travel through Manchester. I’m delighted to be announcing the go-ahead for the final phase, which will open in 2025, connecting the people and businesses of the North to dozens more global destinations, and creating jobs and stimulating increased levels of trade and tourism.”

Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director of Manchester Airport, said:

“It is hugely exciting to be announcing this significant investment in Manchester Airport. It represents a major milestone in the history of both our airport, and the region as a whole.

“By completing the transformation of Terminal 2, we will not only be offering passengers across the North an unrivalled choice of destinations, but also providing them with world class facilities and a great overall experience when they travel through Manchester.

“I cannot wait to see the plans come to fruition, for the benefit of all of our customers, colleagues and supporters.”

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said:

“As the aviation industry recovers after Covid, it’s great news to see this significant vote of confidence in the UK.

“This investment will be a huge boost for the North, benefitting passengers flying in and out of the region as well as supporting thousands of jobs.”

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said:

“Manchester Airport is a massive asset to our city region, connecting those living and working here to global destinations, as well as helping attract visitors, tourists and inward investment.

“The further investment in the Manchester Airport transformation programme will enhance Greater Manchester’s international credentials and make a major contribution to the northern economy.

“The project is also doing a huge amount to create employment for people from all backgrounds and providing training that will ensure it leaves a skills legacy for future generations.”

Richard Sofer, TUI’s Commercial and Business Development Director said:?

“The news of Manchester Airport’s redevelopment is hugely exciting, for both our customers and TUI colleagues based at Manchester.

“As one of our major airport hubs, TUI flies to more than 40 holiday hotspots from Manchester, so it’s great to hear about the plans for the evolution of the airport, with passengers benefitting from the new facilities, shops, bars and restaurants once the project is completed.

“We look forward to continuing to work together with the team at Manchester Airport and our TUI colleagues to create more holiday memories for our customers in the North West.”