Manchester Airport’s route network of more than 200 destinations, served by upwards of 50 airlines, means there are plenty of options for ‘shoulder season’ holidays – destinations with fewer crowds at famous sites and popular beaches, but broad sunshine and balmy temperatures persisting well into the autumn.

Early to mid-October is a great time for couples and families with preschool-age children to enjoy a quieter getaway, while the end of the month will see the first half-term of the new academic year, with destinations like the Canary Islands still enjoying comfortable beach weather even as Halloween decorations start to appear.

Here we look at some of the best shoulder season deals available at the North’s hub airport – with prices from just £46pp* return.

Malta

Fly direct from Manchester to Malta with Ryanair from £46pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 25C.

Malta’s stunning beaches – including its famous Blue Lagoon – are thronged with visitors in the busy summer months, but a little quieter by shoulder season, and temperatures remain perfectly beachy.

Tenerife

Fly direct from Manchester to Tenerife with Ryanair from £58pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 25C.

Tenerife is consistently in Manchester’s top five destinations by passenger numbers, and it’s easy to see why. There’s something for everyone, from the family beach resorts in Costa Adeje to the nightlife scene around Playa de las Americas and the quiet mountain retreats in the island’s north. Better still, temperatures are reliably in the mid-twenties well into Autumn.

Madeira

Fly direct from Manchester to Madeira with Ryanair from £70pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 22C.

Visitors to this lush Portuguese island in the North Atlantic are bowled over by its volcanic landscapes and black sand beaches. It’s also the birthplace of football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, and a museum in his hometown of Funchal displays more than 100 trophies and medals he has won during his career.

Larnaca

Fly direct from Manchester to Larnaca with TUI from £134pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 26C.

Cyprus is a firm favourite for families and couples, and shoulder season is in many ways the perfect time to visit – avoiding the roasting temperatures of midsummer and allowing you to explore cultural sites like ancient ruins of Kition, near Larnaca, along with enjoying its blue flag beaches.

Heraklion

Fly direct from Manchester to Heraklion with TUI from £113pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 23C.

Heraklion is the gateway to eastern Crete, Greece’s largest island. Cooler autumn temperatures lend themselves to exploring its Old Town and storied Venetian fortress. Autumn is also grape harvesting season at many of the region’s wineries, which often host festivals, with tours and stays available.

Agadir

Fly direct from Manchester to Agadir with Ryanair from £61pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 25C.

Temperatures push 30C along the North African coast well into autumn – which means weather reminiscent of Europe in summer, but without the crowds. Away from the seafront, visitors to the Moroccan city of Agadir enjoy exploring its themed gardens, Museum of Arts, and shopping for handmade souvenirs at the Souk El Had market.

Fuerteventura

Fly direct from Manchester to Fuerteventura with Ryanair from £58pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 26C.

Fuerteventura is the least-visited of the four major Canary Islands (the others being Tenerife, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria) – and crowds will be even fewer in shoulder season, but you can still enjoy endless white sand beaches, warm year-round sunshine with over 3,000 hours of sun per year, and world-class water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Antalya

Fly direct from Manchester to Antalya with Sunexpress from £111pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 26C.

Antalya is the biggest city on, and entry point into, Turkey’s Turquoise Coast – more than 600 miles of coastline with sandy beaches, ancient historical sites like the ruins of Side, and rugged mountainous terrain. Its natural beauty can be enjoyed on the Lycian Way hiking trail – and the cooler climate of autumn is the best time to do that.

Palermo

Fly direct from Manchester to Palermo with Jet2.com from £110pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 23C.

Founded over 2,700 years ago by Phoenician traders, Palermo is one of Italy's and Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Its history greets you at every turn, from its centuries-old Cathedral and Norman Palace to its museums and galleries. Travel a few miles out of the city in an easterly direction and you’ll find some of Sicily’s best beaches.

Cape Verde

Fly direct from Manchester to Sal with easyJet from £172pp return.

Average daytime high temperature in October – 30C.

The West African island nation of Cape Verde is having its moment in the sun, after its national team’s huge overachievements at this summer’s World Cup. Sal is one of its most popular tourist spots and offers an almost Caribbean vibe, with straw umbrellas, beach bars serving up local beer, caipirinhas and fresh grilled seafood, and a relaxed feel to its cobbled streets and markets.

Among the many things that people may not realise about Manchester airport, one is our incredible chaplaincy team. Did you know that Manchester has a team of chaplains here to aid you as you travel through the airport? To find out more we talked to our Deputy Lead Chaplain, David Twomey. Written by Maisie Barnes.

How long have you been working at Manchester Airport?

I’ve been deputy lead chaplain here since January 2023.

What does you job involve on a typical day?

The chaplaincy have our office in Terminal 2, we have a multi faith team with lots of different traditions and denominations such as Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Sikh and Hindu all working together. As Christian chaplains we gather at the start of the day to pray together. From 9:00 onwards anyone can knock on the door or we could get a phone call with a referral that needs responding to and the whole day changes from there. There are three main things that shape our day, one is the everyday tasks such as visiting staff and offering pastoral care. Another includes things surrounding humanitarian care for example someone arriving to the airport who requires some kind of assistance. Finally, there is the background work like well-being, welfare, homelessness and modern slavery. Every day looks different.

Why does Manchester Airport need a chaplaincy?

Because our team is so diverse we reflect the diversity of the airport, it’s staff and it’s passengers. Due to the fact that we are an independent charity we have a lot of flexibility in terms of how we work and who we can help. I think we also offer something really distinctive, because of the way we work. We are often quite visible around the airport, if we’re visiting offices or break rooms you’ll have a Christian, a Muslim and a Jewish chaplain all visiting together which isn’t something that happens a lot outside. I think it’s really important for people to see those of different traditions working together and it shows that it’s possible to work with people who believe different things to you and think, sound or look different. Particularly at the moment with our world being quite a divided place, that in itself is quite an important mission.

What is the most memorable thing you’ve worked on?

There are some big projects that we do, for example working with colleagues on things like our airport Iftar meal. That was special to see lots of different people enjoying food and fellowship and faith together. The remembrance services, we have a lot of staff who have served in the armed forces, are a big part of our calendar. Currently, we’re working on the international Champlain conference which is coming to Manchester. We’ll be welcoming colleagues from around the world for a week in September.

What do you enjoy the most about working at the airport?

I think that every day is different and varied, sometimes that can be quite challenging especially when you have things you need to do but recognising that this is such a big and busy place, which is a joy despite bringing some of its own challenges.

How did you get into your job and were there any particular skills or qualifications you needed?

I wasn’t particularly looking to move but I was actually on holiday when someone sent me the advert for the job. I thought it was a great opportunity and something I really wanted to do but was unlikely to get. In terms of qualifications chaplains would usually be someone authorised by their faith tradition. We also have our chaplaincy volunteers who come from all different backgrounds. I think for me, you could have all the theological training in the world but it’s really about compassion, patience and an ability to remain calm amidst all the activity and noise of the airport.

What one piece of advice would you give someone considering a career at the airport?

Before I was appointed I went to have a chat with the Bishop of Manchester so he could license and get to know me, as I had come from the North east. He said it won’t take long before the airport takes over your life. I think I know what he meant, both in terms of chaplaincy where there’s a lot to manage and the airport it gets under your skin and into your bloodstream which a lot of people love and they love about the place. So I would just say be prepared, maybe not for it to take over your life, but definitely to get into your bloodstream.

How can passengers contact the chaplaincy?

We have a website – the chaplaincy at Manchester Airport. We have email and phone as well, all the details are on our website. People get in contact for all kinds of things whether that’s practical issues like where they should go or deeper topics where they just need somebody to talk to.

What do you like to do when your not at work?

I enjoy the cricket and me and my wife have a Ridge-Back Staffy cross puppy who is about two now, so we like to take her out on walks. I enjoy reading, normally I read three at one time - something spiritual, educational and a novel. I especially enjoy fantasy, specifically Terry Pratchett. I also enjoy time with family and friends and the occasional cider.

What destination that we fly to would you most like to visit?

I’ve always wanted to see Bucharest for the history and knowing people who have gone and loved it. It’s one of those places that’s always fascinated me.

The Community Trust Fund was set up in 1997 and has since donated more than £4m to charities and community groups in its area of benefit, which extends 10 miles from the airport.

More than £30,000 was pledged in the latest round of donations – bringing the total for 2026 up to almost £91,000.

The Trust Fund is overseen by a board of trustees drawn from the airport and local councils in neighbouring communities, with applications for up to £3,000 considered on a quarterly basis.

Among those to benefit from the latest funding were Our Space Youth Club in Wythenshawe, a club for children and young people with disabilities in the 7 – 18 age range. They will receive a £1,900 donation for silent disco equipment.

Jo Hampson, one of the group’s organisers, explained: “These resources will make a huge difference to our inclusive activities, giving our young people the opportunity to enjoy their very own disco while being able to control the volume to a level that feels comfortable and safe for them. The silent headphones will help reduce sensory overload, anxiety and distress caused by loud music, while allowing young people to still enjoy the atmosphere, music and fun alongside their friends.

“This means that young people who may previously have been unable to attend a disco because of noise and sensory sensitivities can now take part, build confidence, socialise, develop friendships and feel included. Manchester Airport's support is helping us make inclusion a reality and ensuring every young person has the opportunity to have fun, participate and belong.”

Also set to benefit is 4 Cheeky Monkeys, a children’s play centre in Sale. They were awarded £2,902 to pay for a set of outdoor play and learning equipment.

Jeneane Warhurst, a co-founder of 4 Cheeky Monkeys – which is a Community Interest Company - said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Manchester Airport’s Community Trust Fund for supporting 4 Cheeky Monkeys. This funding will allow us to purchase new outdoor play and learning equipment, helping us create an even more engaging and inclusive space where local children can play, explore and learn together. As a small community organisation, funding like this makes a huge difference to what we’re able to provide for local families.”

Lach Dennis & Lostock Green Parish Council in Cheshire were awarded £1,850 for a book exchange cabinet.

Cllr Alex Scrowther, who brought forward the idea, explained: “The Manchester Airport Community Trust Fund grant will enable Lach Dennis & Lostock Green Parish Council to purchase a handmade book exchange cabinet, providing a lasting resource for the local community for many years to come.

“The book exchange will encourage residents to share and discover books, helping to bring people together and strengthen community connections. It will also promote sustainability by giving unwanted books a second life, encouraging reuse and reducing waste. The cabinet will provide an accessible and welcoming resource for residents of all ages to enjoy and will help to create a greater sense of community spirit.”

And in Heaton Chapel, Stockport, the KNDS Fairey Brass Band was granted £2,995 for the purchase of a new flugelhorn – a type of brass instrument similar to a trumpet with its origins in Alpine regions of Germany and Austria.

Nigel Beasley, chair of the band, said: “Everyone at the KNDS Band would like to express our sincere gratitude for the generous grant awarded by the Manchester Airport Community Fund. The flugelhorn is a vital addition to our ensemble.

“The cost of replacing high-quality instruments is a significant financial challenge for any band. Having this new instrument will be a fantastic boost as we head toward both the British Open and the National Brass Band Championships."

The full list of organisations to be awarded a grant at the latest meeting, and what they will be using the money for, can be found below.

"Manchester Airport is proud to serve the people of Greater Manchester and Cheshire – not just by connecting people to the places they want to travel to, but also by supporting good causes, not-for-profits organisations and grassroots campaigns in our neighbouring communities. Our Community Trust Fund reaches dozens of these groups every year and the impact of these donations collectively is huge. It’s great to be able to fund such a diverse range of applications as we’ve seen this quarter.”

Helen McNabb, Trustee – Manchester Airport Community Trust Fund

Applications must demonstrate a clear and lasting community benefit, seeking funding for tangible items of longstanding value. Details on how to apply for a Community Trust Fund grant, and the full criteria, can be found here.

The service will not only open up connections to Saudi Arabia for travellers from the North but will also give them access via onward connections to Riyadh Air’s network of destinations across Africa and Asia.

The airline, which is owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), began its operations on June 10^th this year with its maiden flight to London and has ambitious plans to become one of the world’s largest operators, with a goal to serve 100 destinations across six continents by 2030.

In addition to improving outbound links to Saudi Arabia and beyond, Riyadh Air’s new service is expected to provide a boost to inbound tourism in the North and enhance economic ties between the two nations.

Hundreds of thousands of people visit the UK from Saudi Arabia for business or leisure each year, and the North’s world-famous football teams are among the biggest draws. The region’s universities are highly popular with Saudi students, too.

Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director of Manchester Airport, said:

“We’re proud to connect people from across the North with destinations across the planet, so having a new route to a major global city like Riyadh is a big moment for us.

“What makes this even more special is that an ambitious airline like Riyadh Air has selected Manchester as one of its first European destinations – showing the appeal of Manchester and the North as a destination, but also indicating the strength of demand for long-haul travel from the North.

“That is something we now have more capacity to meet than ever before, thanks to our decade-long, £1.5bn transformation of Terminal 2. Whether they’re travelling to Manchester from or via Riyadh, travelling to Saudi Arabia, or connecting onwards to other parts of Asia, Africa or Australasia, passengers travelling with Riyadh Air from Manchester can be assured of a world-class experience – both at the airport, and with the airline.”

Tony Douglas, CEO at Riyadh Air said:

“It’s incredibly exciting to be launching our inaugural flight to Manchester, our second destination in the UK and 14th worldwide. Manchester is a key gateway from where our guests can fly to cities in the Middle East and Asia in addition to being a popular cultural destination for visitors from across our growing network. We look forward to welcoming guests to fly on our modern, premium aircraft and experiencing genuine Saudi hospitality, known locally as Hafawa.”

The Manchester – Riyadh service will operate three times weekly, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, using a 290-seat Boeing 787‑9, featuring four distinct cabin classes.

It will be Manchester’s second service to Saudi Arabia, with Saudia also operating flights to the city of Jeddah on the country’s Red Sea coast.

The 300-seater pub, which welcomed its first customers yesterday, is named after Manchester’s historic showground and has design features which nod to the city’s sporting heritage, including vintage event posters and memorabilia, a ‘locker wall’ hosting trophies and other sporting exhibits, and a cricket-themed design in the carpets and bar panels.

It will be open from the first flight to the final flight each day and food will be served from opening until 10pm. The pub is expected to create around 150 jobs.

The Belle Vue is the final planned new eatery to open in the airport’s redeveloped Terminal 2, marking one of the final steps in the super-terminal’s decade-long, £1.5bn transformation – which has seen it more than double in size to become the Northern hub’s focal point and win a prestigious UNESCO-backed award.

Richard Jackson, Retail Director at Manchester Airport, said: “It’s a proud moment to see the final new retail unit opening in our new-look Terminal 2, a world-class facility with an unrivalled range of options for passengers to eat, drink and shop.

“To be rounding off this 10-year programme by adding such an iconic name as Wetherspoon to the terminal is particularly special and we know that it will prove extremely popular with passengers. We think they’ll love the nods to Manchester’s heritage in the décor and design – and of course the name.”

Pub manager Jenny Warburton said: “Myself and my team are looking forward to welcoming customers into The Belle Vue and we are confident that the pub will be a great addition to the airport hospitality venues.”

·      Mallorca was the month’s most popular destination – with Alicante and Antalya also proving popular

·      September sees the start of ‘shoulder season’ – with lots of passengers seeking late season sun

Among those sharing their stories with passengers were Margaret and Jim McKie, a Stockport couple who lost their daughter to methanol poisoning in Bali in 2022.

Joining them were survivors Bethany Clarke and Calum Macdonald. Both were backpacking in Laos when they fell victim to a mass methanol poisoning event at a hostel in Vang Vieng. Bethany’s best friend Simone White was among six travellers who lost their lives, and Calum suffered permanent damage to his vision.

Methanol poisoning is a life-threatening illness caused by consuming alcohol contaminated with methanol, a highly toxic industrial form of alcohol that is unfit for human consumption. Methanol cannot be identified in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell and a single shot can be fatal.

Methanol can sometimes be found in counterfeit, illegally produced or contaminated alcoholic drinks. Information about the risks of methanol poisoning is currently included in FCDO travel advice for 29 destinations.

British holidaymakers are advised to take practical steps to reduce the risk, including avoiding free cocktails or shots, drinks from unlabelled bottles, and unusually cheap or heavily discounted drinks claiming to be brand-name alcohol. Sticking to beer, cider, wine and pre-mixed cocktails in sealed bottles or cans minimises the risk.

They are also encouraged to familiarise themselves with the symptoms so they can act quickly and seek medical attention for themselves or their travelling companions if necessary.

Early symptoms can resemble alcohol poisoning or a severe hangover. They can include vomiting, poor judgement, loss of balance and drowsiness, before more distinctive signs such as vision problems and breathlessness develop within 12 to 48 hours of consumption. Anyone showing signs of methanol poisoning should seek urgent medical attention immediately.

The Minister responsible for Consular and Crisis, Stephen Doughty, said: "Methanol poisoning can initially look like a bad hangover, but it can be life-threatening. Recognising the warning signs and getting urgent medical help could save a life. The symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and confusion, followed by more distinctive signs such as blurred vision and breathlessness.

"We are grateful to the survivors, families and campaigners who continue to share their experiences to help others understand the risks, and to Manchester Airport for helping to bring this important message directly to travellers. Through the FCDO's 'Know the Signs' campaign, we are encouraging travellers to recognise the symptoms of methanol poisoning and seek urgent medical attention immediately if they suspect something is wrong.”

The campaigners’ pop-up information stand in Terminal 2 Departures is complemented by informational posters at key touchpoints around the terminal, including toilet cubicles.

Margaret and Jim said: “We really appreciate Manchester Airport's support for this important campaign, especially relevant at this time of year, when young people are setting off on gap years or international travel.

“We would never want to discourage young people from travelling and exploring the world - we just want them to be armed with the information to keep themselves safe.

“We welcome Manchester Airport's proactive approach on this issue and very much hope that other airports in the UK will follow suit."

They have been supported by their MP, Tom Morrison, who has raised the family’s case in Parliament.

He said: “Margaret and Jim have shown extraordinary courage in turning their unimaginable grief into action that could save other families from the same heartbreak. I've been proud to support them in raising their daughter's case in Parliament, and I'm hugely grateful to Bethany and Calum for having the courage to share their own experiences so publicly, and to Manchester Airports Group for hosting today's campaign. Their combined efforts are what will keep other travellers safe, and I'm right behind everyone involved.”

Bethany said: “It was great to speak to members of the travelling public face to face and share some really important guidance with them on the signs and symptoms to look for. If I could offer one piece of advice it would be to ensure you’re familiar with those symptoms and seek medical attention if in any doubt.”

Calum added: “From a personal perspective it’s important for me to turn a negative into a positive and use it to help people - but more broadly I think it’s important to ensure that the issue of methanol poisoning is better known and this has been a great opportunity to reach people directly with my own experiences.”

For comprehensive information on recognising symptoms and reducing risks, Brits should visit the Travel Aware campaign website. To check travel advice for a destination, visit gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.

This year’s series of the hit BBC show Race Across The World saw competitors traversing the country and introduced a new audience to captivating sites like the caves of Cappadocia and the towering Hagia Sofia in Istanbul.

And while it beaches remain popular, the country’s tourism board is now actively pushing Turkey as a cultural destination – with archaeological marvels, world-class museums and galleries, and sport and music events. Its natural beauty is not restricted to its coasts, either- with stunning landscapes to be found inland.

Manchester Airport, the UK’s hub in the North, offers direct links to no fewer than five destinations in Turkey – Istanbul, Izmir, Bodrum, Dalaman and Antalya. The latter two are among the airport’s most popular summer routes, with up to six airlines serving them directly – ensuring plenty of choice for passengers. Between them, these routes offer easy access not only to some of Turkey’s best beach resorts but also to some of its most breathtaking landscapes and iconic cultural sites.

Here we look at some of Turkey’s best cultural experiences – and how to get there from Manchester with flights from only £65pp return.

Hot air balloons at sunrise over Cappadocia

Fly direct from Manchester to Istanbul with Pegasus Airlines from £116pp return.

Cappadocia’s ‘fairy chimney’ rock formations were hollowed out and turned into cave dwellings over thousands of years – but it’s the more recent phenomenon of hot air balloon rides over the otherworldly landscape, pioneered int the 1990s, that have captured travellers’ imaginations. Most visits centre on the town of Göreme, with tours available from Istanbul.

Spa pools fit for the Gods at Pamukkale

Fly direct from Manchester to Bodrum with easyJet from £141pp return.

A site that blends ancient history with natural wonders, Pamukkale’s famous turquoise thermal pools – staggered along a sloping white travertine cliff face – have drawn visitors for millennia. The evidence of that is in the nearby ruins of the Roman spa town Hierapolis – where you can see what remains of temples, an ancient theatre and the original baths – some of which are still in use. Pamukkale is just over three hours’ drive from Bodrum, which has direct flights from Manchester.

Greeks and Romans – from Troy to Ephesus

Fly direct from Manchester to Izmir with Jet2.com from £46pp one-way and from Antalya to Manchester with Sunexpress from £31pp one-way.

If you want to make Turkey’s ancient history the focus of your visit, hire a car and plan a road trip along the coastline from Izmir to Antalya. To the north of Izmir, you’ll find the ruins of Troy – immortalised in Homer’s Iliad, the site consists of nine archaeological layers stretching back more than 4,000 years. From there, journey southwards towards the huge cities of Pergamon and Ephesus, the spa town Hierapolis, and the marble sculptures of Aphrodisias, before ending your trip in the ruins of Side, an almost-3,000-year-old port near Antalya.

The Lycian Way

Fly direct from Manchester to Dalaman with easyJet from £65pp return.

One of Turkey’s most impressive long-distance hiking trails, the Lycian Way covers more than 300 miles of rugged coastline. It extends from the town of Hisaronu – near Dalaman – in the west to Antalya in the east, and offers hikers a taste of everything Turkish, from archaeological sites connected to the ancient Lycian Kingdom, to nature reserves and small villages with a traditional way of life and authentic Turkish cuisine.

The ‘Turkish Maldives’ and the ‘Sunken City’

Fly direct from Manchester to Antalya with Sunexpress from £102pp return.

Visitors to Antalya who want to journey off the beaten track can take boat tours to Suluada, a small island that has been nicknamed the ‘Turkish Maldives’ because of its clear turquoise water and bright sandy shores. A few miles further along the coast is the island of Kekova, famous for its ‘sunken city’ – a ruined Lycian settlement that has slipped below the waves, but is still visible through the clear waters.

The city where East meets West

Fly direct from Manchester to Istanbul with Pegasus Airlines from £116pp return.

Turkey’s largest city, Istanbul, is also its biggest tourist draw – and there’s loads to do here that doesn’t involve a beach or a sun lounger. Peruse the stalls in the world famous Grand Bazaar – one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world – and then explore the winding streets of Galati and marvel at the splendour of the Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace.

*Prices quoted are the cheapest available between now and 30 April 2027 when booking directly through the relevant airline’s website, from Manchester to the destination specified, and are accurate at the time of publication. Optional extras like hold luggage and seat selection may not be included.

· Businesses across the region have shared their stories of how having true international connectivity on their doorstep has helped them grow

· Political leaders including new Mayor of Greater Manchester Bev Craig and Northern Powerhouse Partnership President Lord Jim O’Neill have backed the runway to continue to drive benefits for the North as a whole and close the UK’s productivity gap

Manchester Airport is the third largest airport in the UK, serving more than 32 million passengers a year - the majority of whom travel here by road. A team of Landside Administrators oversee traffic flows across the terminal forecourts, car parks and road networks to ensure passengers can access the terminals quickly and efficiently.

In this month's edition of Life at MAN we speak to Adam Gardam, a self-proclaimed Harry Potter fan, maths-lover and Landside Administrator at the airport, to delve deeper into his vital role and his top tips for those seeking a career in the aviation industry. Written by Xiayan Pillay Narrainen

How long have you been working at Manchester Airport?

I have been working as a Landside Administrator for two and a half a years.

What does your job involve on a typical day?

There are many different tasks that fall under the umbrella of a Landside Administrator- no two days are the same. Our responsibilities range from forecourt management which includes queries about the barrierless system, dealing with concession cards for private hire drivers to small claims on vehicle damage. We often work with different teams such as car park managers and liaise with customers. Sometimes new responsibilities also emerge - for example, the introduction of barrierless forecourts and car park has meant new arrangements must be made to accommodate contractors and visitors.

What is the most memorable thing you have worked on?

A memorable moment for me was the launch of the barrierless system in our forecourts and car parks. It was an exciting moment for the whole team as we'd worked on it for a long time and symbolised a significant shift in Manchester Airport's parking system - but one that simplifies and speeds up the process for passengers.

What do you enjoy most about working in the airport?

The people. Words cannot express how supportive and kind everyone is. It’s an environment where everyone is genuinely willing to help each other, and has allowed me to grow and flourish as a person. The sheer size of the organisation creates opportunities to meet a diverse range of people, and to understand and connect to different backgrounds and beliefs.

How did you get your job, and are there any qualifications or skills needed?

I saw a job advertisement online, applied and luckily got the job. I have a Level 3 Business Administration qualification, which personally I believe equipped me with some of the skills and knowledge needed for the job. However, this is not necessary - the wonderful thing about my role is that anyone from any background can do it. There are no specific qualifications needed beforehand, although I would say you do need good communication and interpersonal skills.

What one piece of advice would you give to someone considering a career at the airport?

Go for it. The airport is a great organisation that will help develop yourself and your career. Its strong values deeply resonate with all its staff and create a warm and welcoming atmosphere and strong community. If you do end up joining, I recommend asking lots of questions, being curious and most importantly enjoying the experience.

What do you like to do when you’re not at work?

I like to balance working on my physical health with spending time with friends and family. I go to the gym several times a week and like to play darts. I don’t often watch TV, but the Harry Potter series are my absolute comfort movies, especially the Goblet of Fire.

Which destination that we fly do you most want to visit?

Definitely New York. It would be an absolute dream to go during wintertime and see Times Square.

The North’s hub airport is expecting a record summer season for 2026, with its £1.3bn transformation of Terminal 2 all but complete, and a major project underway to redevelop Terminal 3.

Sunseekers’ favourites like Malaga, Antalya and Mallorca are all expected to see extra visitors from Manchester this summer – but other, lesser-known destinations are seeing an even greater surge in popularity, with the number of people travelling there from Manchester this summer versus last summer set to double or even triple in some cases.

These destinations are spread across the Mediterranean from east to west, and offer a rich blend of sun, sea, sand, history, culture and culinary delights.  To find out where’s hot this summer, read on.

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Stephen Turner, Chief Commercial Officer at Manchester Airport, said: “We’re proud to connect people from across the North to the places they want to fly to – and we know for many people, that means the tried and trusted holiday favourites that keep them coming back year on year.

“For others, however, part of the excitement is the opportunity to explore somewhere new – and we provide plenty of options, with a route network of more than 200 destinations which is unrivalled in the UK outside London.

“Sometimes, a destination will go viral on social media or see a spike in demand as adventurous travellers discover it – and we then see that translate into airlines adding extra flights or flying larger aircraft to those destinations to meet that demand.

“We keep our finger on the pulse to analyse these trends and we work with our airline partners to ensure that if a particular destination is in vogue, or emerging as a new favourite, you can get there from Manchester.”

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La Palma (Spain)

Summer 2025 seats - 4,914. Summer 2026 seats - 14,742. Growth - 200%.

Served from Manchester by Jet2.com and TUI.

Move over Tenerife, look the other way Lanzarote – there’s a new holiday favourite emerging in the Canary Islands.

Jet2.com launched flights to the island of La Palma back in April, joining TUI in offering a direct link from Manchester. La Palma is only a third the size of Tenerife but there’s plenty to see, like its black sand beaches and volcanic landscapes designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, natural wonders such as the Caldera de Taburiente National Park with its lush pine forests, and the archaeological site of Belmaco with prehistoric cave paintings.

The vibe here is much more relaxed than on neighbouring islands and is proving a hit with visitors from Manchester Airport, with almost 15,000 set to travel there this summer – up from less than 5,000 in 2025.

Jerez de la Frontera (Spain)

Summer 2025 seats - 4,158. Summer 2026 seats – 8,136. Growth - 100%.

Served from Manchester by Jet2.com.

Jet2.com launched seasonal flights from Manchester to Jerez last summer and is offering double the number of seats this year, with two flights each week between May and October. Jerez is in the south-west of mainland Spain, near the historic city of Cadiz and the Costa de la Luz, where west-facing beaches make for spectacular sunsets. The region is a centre for sherry production and its Doñana wetlands are home to flocks of wild flamingos.

Preveza (Greece)

Summer 2025 seats – 21,213. Summer 2026 seats – 31,547. Growth - 49%.

Served from Manchester by easyJet, Jet2.com and TUI.

Manchester Airport flies to more than 20 airports in Greece, but Preveza has seen the biggest bump in seat numbers this summer. Passenger numbers from Manchester to the Ionian coastal hotspot are forecast to be up by almost half on the same period in 2025.

The airport itself is on the mainland, but most people flying in are travelling on to the picturesque island of Lefkada, where dramatic white cliffs tower over sandy beaches. Lefkada Old Town boasts stunning medieval Venetian architecture set in a warren of tightly packed streets, and its well preserved Agia Mavra Fortress dates back almost 1,000 years.

Verona (Italy)

Summer 2025 seats – 34,003. Summer 2026 seats – 49,921. Growth - 47%.

Served from Manchester by easyJet, Jet2.com, TUI and Ryanair.

An inland Italian city might not be the most obvious candidate for a fast-growing beach destination – but many flying into Verona this summer will be taking advantage of its location, less than an hour from stunning Lake Garda, to combine a city break with a spot of R&R.

Garda has some of the best lake beaches in Europe – including ‘Jamaica Beach’ in the village of Sirmione, so called because its shallow, crystal-clear waters are said to resemble the Caribbean. The region is also known for its wineries and botanical gardens.

Santander (Spain)

Summer 2025 seats – 10,584. Summer 2026 seats – 15,315. Growth - 45%.

Served from Manchester by Ryanair.

Ryanair is adding nearly 5,000 extra seats to Santander this summer – a city on Spain’s beautiful, but often overlooked, north coast. El Sardinero beach, with its vast expanse of fine golden sands, is at the heart of social life in the city – and on a hot summer’s day you’ll mingle with locals playing beach volleyball, surfing, sunbathing, or knocking back a cold Estrella in one of its beach bars. The nearby cities of Bilbao and San Sebastian are worth a day trip, too – the former is home to the Guggenheim Museum of Modern Art, and the latter has one of the highest concentrations of Michelin star restaurants anywhere in the world.

Valencia (Spain)

Summer 2025 seats – 24,967. Summer 2026 seats – 34,827. Growth - 39%.

Served from Manchester by Ryanair.

Another Spanish destination, Valencia, will see almost 10,000 extra visitors from Manchester this summer. The city is a highlight in itself, with a charming Old Town teeming with tapas bars and cafes, but it also gives its name to the Costa de Valencia, a little-known stretch of the Spanish Mediterranean coast characterised by golden beaches and quaint fishing villages. It’s the region that created paella, and prides itself on serving the best iterations of the dish anywhere in Spain.

Zadar (Croatia)

Summer 2025 seats – 6,615. Summer 2026 seats – 8,987. Growth - 36%.

Served from Manchester by Ryanair.

As one of the largest cities on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, Zadar is a gateway to some of the most spectacular, unspoilt beaches on the Med. If you like island hopping, Zadar’s busy port will connect you to around a dozen islands and islets in the Adriatic sea, each with a distinct character of its own. It’s also home to one of Europe’s more unusual visitor attractions – the ‘Sea Organ’, a musical instrument-come-art installation at the water’s edge, played by the breaking waves.

Tirana (Albania)

Summer 2025 seats – 14,742. Summer 2026 seats – 19,845. Growth - 35%.

Served from Manchester by Ryanair.

Albania’s capital is a great candidate for a city break – but as it has the country’s only major international airport, it’s also the starting point for intrepid explorers seeking out the stunning beaches on the Albanian Riviera that have become Instagram and TikTok famous over the past couple of years. The most iconic are found in Ksamil, where powdery white sand and turquoise waters have earned comparisons with the Maldives. The nearby ruins of Butrint, an ancient Greek city, are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Marseille (France)

Summer 2025 seats – 15,139. Summer 2026 seats – 20,269. Growth - 34%.

Served from Manchester by Ryanair.

Marseille is one of the oldest cities in Europe but its charms are just being discovered by visitors from Manchester, with numbers set to be up by a third this year. Enjoy cake and coffee in the trendy Le Panier district, marvel at the architecture of the Cathedrale La Major, and relax on a beach with a breathtaking backdrop in the nearby Calanques National Park.

Porto (Portugal)

Summer 2025 seats – 54,856. Summer 2026 seats – 72,031. Growth - 31%.

Served from Manchester by easyJet, Jet2.com and Ryanair.

More than 17,000 extra travellers are expected to fly from Manchester Airport to Porto this summer, and many of them will head straight for Matosinhos – a stunning mile-long stretch of sand at the edge of the city that has carved a reputation as one of Europe’s premier surfing spots. The city is the birthplace of Port wine, and the beautiful Douro Valley – which stretches inland for almost 500 miles, from the mouth of the Douro river in Porto – provides the grapes for Portugal’s signature tipple.

Other notable fast-growing destinations

-          Chania on the Greek island of Crete is up from 48,653 seats last summer to 61,054 seats this summer – a 25% increase.

-          Dubrovnik in Croatia is up from 50,733 last summer to 62,526 this year, an increase of 23%.

-          Of the traditional holiday favourites, Alicante is the fastest growing, with an extra 9% of seats year-on-year vs summer 2025. While that’s a much lower percentage than some destinations on this list, an increase from 293,829 to 319,886 means more than 25,000 extra seats to the Costa Blanca this summer.

·      However, items that are not permitted in your hand luggage – like large bottles of liquid and sports equipment – can be packed in your hold bags

·      Hold Baggage Screening team at Manchester Airport also explains most common pitfalls when packing your checked luggage – and how to avoid them

Don’t put vapes, power banks or tablet computers in your hold luggage or you risk having them removed when your bag is screened.

That’s the warning from the Hold Baggage Screening team at Manchester Airport – the staff responsible for conducting security screening on bags that have been checked in at the North’s hub airport.

With the rise in popularity of vaping, more and more passengers are bringing vapes and e-cigarettes with them when they travel – while items like power banks are particularly popular over the school summer holidays when a family might be bringing a number of electronic devices with them that will need to be charged on the go.

However, these items could pose a significant safety risk if packed or handled incorrectly – and if you put them in your hold luggage, security staff may need to remove them.

Anthony Shaw, a Security Team Leader within the Hold Baggage Screening team at Manchester Airport, explained:

“Small electronic devices like vapes, power banks and tablets are often powered by lithium batteries. These are very powerful batteries with a long lifespan and fast charging times, which makes them popular for these kinds of devices – but they store a massive amount of energy in a small space. If the battery gets too hot, or is faulty, it can catch fire without warning.

“For that reason, these devices are forbidden within hold luggage and must be carried in your hand luggage – where, in the event of an emergency, the problem will be spotted more quickly and can be more easily dealt with. Batteries for products like power tools are often lithium-based and these are not permitted for the same reasons.

“Our team screens all checked baggage to ensure it complies with security requirements – so if you pack a device containing a lithium battery into your hold luggage, we may have to open your bag and remove it. We don’t want to have to do that – so it’s really important that passengers acquaint themselves with the rules before packing their bags.”

Although devices powered by lithium batteries are not permitted in checked luggage, there are range of items which must be packed in your checked bag, not your hand luggage, if you want to take them on your travels this summer.

Anthony explained: “The 100ml liquids rule for hand luggage remains in place at Manchester Airport. We have now installed brand-new CT scanners in both of our terminals that will ultimately allow the 100ml rule to be lifted, but we are awaiting certification from the Civil Aviation Authority. For the time being, if you wish to bring liquids over 100ml – such as bottles of shampoo, conditioner or sun cream – you need to pack these in your hold luggage.

“Sports equipment like golf clubs, cricket bats and skis must be checked in too, due to their size – but also due to the risk that a bat or club could be used as a weapon.”

With more than 6 million passengers set to travel through Manchester Airport this summer, Anthony and his team will be very busy – and he emphasised the importance of packing bags correctly, to avoid any delays and to ensure your bag makes it onto the plane.

He explained: “For a large aircraft on a long-haul flight, we could be screening almost 1,000 checked bags – but even for a short hop holiday flight, we have to look at several hundred. Each bag that fails to pass security checks gets pulled aside, and often needs to be inspected manually – which is a process that takes several minutes per bag.

“This can create delays, but it also creates a risk that your hold bag might not make it onto the plane at all – so it’s really important to ensure your bag is packed correctly and that your vapes, power banks and small electronic devices are in your hand luggage.”

Anthony’s Hold Baggage Travel Tips:

Review the list of prohibited items before packing

Anthony says: “There are some hazardous items that are not permitted in either hold luggage or hand luggage. These include fireworks and pyrotechnics, non-safety matches, flammable liquids like oil, fuels, paint and thinners, real or replica firearms, as well as ammunition. You can find the full list at www.manchesterairport.co.uk/help/security.

“Many of these don’t sound like everyday items, but sometimes we do see people trying to bring common household items and appliances with them that are not compliant with these rules – including party poppers; cleaning products, like bleach; cooking oils, which are flammable liquids, or a mini-fridge to keep drinks cool, which are not permitted because they contain compressed gas. So it’s important to stop and review these rules when packing.”

Keep medication and important documents in your hand luggage

Anthony says: “Essential items like medication and travel documents need to be kept with you. This ensures you can access them promptly if needed, including in the event of a delay or cancellation to your flight. It also guards against you being without your items if your hold luggage is delayed in reaching your destination for any reason. For peace of mind I would also advise on bringing any sentimental items in your hand luggage, too – provided that they are small enough to fit and compliant with the rules.”

Securely wrap anything that is breakable

Anthony says: “Everyone involved in handling your hold baggage at Manchester Airport – from my team at Hold Baggage Screening, to the handling agents loading it onto the aircraft – takes pride in handling our passengers’ belongings with care. It is still sensible, however, to ensure any delicate items are well protected from any bumps. Using bubble wrap, old newspaper, or even just some of the clothes you’re travelling with.”

Always stay with your luggage before checking it in

Anthony says: “If you find yourself waiting to check your hold luggage in, keep an eye on your bags at all times and never leave them unattended as this could spark a security incident.”

Ensure your bag is distinguishable from other similar bags

Anthony says: “Most suitcases are black, navy blue, or grey – and there are hundreds of them coming off each and every flight. We’ve all been there – waiting at the carousel to collect our luggage, confidently swooping in when we see the case we believe is ours, and then realising it isn’t. Attaching a colourful bag tag, sticker or other identifying item can avoid any mishaps and also make it easier to trace your bag in the event it gets lost. Having a photo of your bag helps with that, too.”

Make sure straps are tightly secured

Anthony says: “Before getting to the plane, your hold bag will have to travel some distance on conveyor belts. Our T2 baggage system contains over two miles of conveyor belts – transporting bags from the check-in hall through Hold Baggage Screening to a sortation hall, and then to the aircraft. If a bag gets snagged on a conveyor belt it could break or get stuck, causing delays. To avoid this, make sure all straps are tightly secured, extendable handles are pushed down and old tags are removed.”

The North’s hub airport received a ‘very good’ rating for the services it offers to passengers with restricted mobility and hidden disabilities – an improvement on its ‘good’ rating for 2025.

ABM, which operates the airport’s special assistance services, has been recognised for improvements made to its services over the past 12 months, with the report citing strong performance on waiting times.

The report also highlights the airport’s engagement with its Accessibility Forum – an independently-chaired advisory group comprised of disabled travellers and advocates – along with the quality of the facilities available in Terminal 2, which is coming to the end of its decade-long transformation programme.

ABM has a strong record of helping people who are not in employment, education or training (NEET) into its service teams at the airport, working closely with Trafford and Stockport College group through its Airport Academy, and also through Pure Innovations’ supported internships programme, to extend job opportunities to people from disadvantaged backgrounds in the airport’s neighbouring communities.

The ‘very good’ rating is also a reflection of significant investment made by Manchester Airport in its facilities, with £1.5bn having been spent on the transformation of Terminal 2 over the past decade, and millions now being spent on upgrading Terminal 3 to update its facilities, improve passenger flow and make navigating the terminal a smoother experience.

Ed Kibblewhite, Head of Terminal Services at Manchester Airport, said: “At Manchester Airport we’re proud to serve the people of the North, helping more than 32 million passengers on their travel in the past 12 months – including 700,000 with restricted mobility or other assistance needs.

“We’re delighted with the ‘very good’ rating in the CAA’s latest accessibility report, as it vindicates the investment we’ve made in these services alongside our delivery partner ABM, and shows that these improvements are bearing fruit, with highly positive feedback from passengers. We are not content to stop here and will continue to improve and streamline the assistance services offered, including in Terminal 3, which is in the middle of its biggest upgrade since it opened in the 1980s.”

Kelly Parish, Vice President - Transport and Aviation at ABM, said: "Achieving a 'very good' rating is the result of consistent investment in our people and the collaborative relationship we have had with Manchester Airport over many years. As the UK and Ireland's largest provider of accessible travel services, we're particularly proud that this includes creating real opportunities for people from the airport's neighbouring communities, through our Airport Academy and our work with Pure Innovations. As Terminal 3 changes shape, we'll be right there ensuring assistance services keep pace."

That’s why even during the school summer holidays, travellers can still pick up last-minute deals that will get them to a range of incredible lesser-known destinations for less than £100 per person.

But not only that – thanks to Manchester Airport offering more flights to some of the continent’s most popular destinations than other airports in the North, last-minute deal-hunters can even get to classic destinations like Ibiza for under £100.

Manchester Airport has selected a dozen holiday hotspots that you can reach directly from the UK’s global gateway in the North before the end of August with return flights from under £100 per person.

Airport bosses have also given some of their top tips to help find the best deals for people looking to save some money but still get away during the peak season.

Manchester Airport’s Chief Commercial Officer Stephen Turner said:

“Here at Manchester Airport we are proud to connect the North to the World – with a bigger and better route network than any UK airport outside London.

“What that means in practice is better choice and value for our passengers – so they can still get great deals even during the summer holidays when prices to lots of destinations tend to rise.

“We fly to lots of lesser-known destinations that other airports don’t, so there are a lot of bargains to be found. But because we also offer more flights each day to some of Europe’s top destinations, that helps keep prices down too.”

Nine of the best less well-known destinations you can get to for under £100 from Manchester Airport

Rimini

Fly direct from Manchester to Rimini with Ryanair on Wed 5 Aug and return on Wed 12 Aug from £58pp return.*

Rimini is a brand-new addition to Manchester’s route network for this summer. Located on Italy’s Adriatic coast, it offers miles of sandy beaches and a picturesque Old Town and marina. Families love ‘Italia in Miniatura’, a model village style attraction which recreates all of Italy’s most famous sites at smaller scale.

Girona

Fly direct from Manchester to Girona with TUI on Tue 18 Aug and return on Tue 25 Aug from £75pp return.*

Girona, just to the north of Barcelona on Spain’s Costa Brava, is an emerging family favourite. It boasts the beaches and food that all of Spain is famous for – but a local point of interest is the pretty whitewashed town of Cadaqués, which was home to the painter Salvador Dali for more than 50 years. His former home is now a museum.

Beziers

Fly direct from Manchester to Beziers with Ryanair on Wed 5 Aug and return on Wed 12 Aug from £80pp return.*

Beziers is the gateway to southern France’s Languedoc coast, a 120-mile stretch of the Mediterranean with gold sandy beaches and idyllic port towns and fishing villages. Many stay around the towns of Agde and Sete, where the viewpoint at the top of Mont Saint-Clair offers sweeping views of the coastline and the inland vineyards the region is known for.

Zadar

Fly direct from Manchester to Zadar with Ryanair on Thu 6 Aug and return on Tue 11 Aug from £89pp return.*

This Croatian city has seen many empires pass through in its history, from Romans to Venetians, and all have left a mark on the architecture in its historic centre and port – which is well connected by ferry links to dozens of small islands off Croatia’s Dalmatian coasts. The unspoilt coastlines on these islands make them a great spot for a summer seaside retreat.

Menorca

Fly direct from Manchester to Menorca with Ryanair on Tue 4 Aug and return on Tue 11 Aug from £45pp return.*

Menorca is in Spain’s Balearic Islands, along with Ibiza and Mallorca – but it’s the least-visited of the three big islands in the chain, and that means fewer crowds at the height of summer. Fewer visitors doesn’t mean less to enjoy, however – the island still boasts great beaches, clear waters, and the historic Ciutadella de Menorca, a town with winding medieval streets and wonderful Spanish cuisine.

Faro

Fly direct from Manchester to Faro with Ryanair on Mon 10 Aug and return on Fri 14 Aug from £66pp return.*

Faro is the gateway to Portugal’s much-loved Algarve – a stretch of coast along the country’s southern edge that has been a favourite of British tourists for decades. Younger crowds hit the famous Strip in Albufeira after dark, but there are plenty of family-friendly options in the region too.

Santander

Fly direct from Manchester to Santander with Ryanair on Wed 12 Aug and return on Mon 24 Aug from £75pp return.*

If you love Spain but want to visit a lesser-explored region, Santander is well worth a try this summer. It’s on the country’s north coast, on the Cantabrian Sea – historically less popular than the country’s Mediterranean coast but full of charm, with a 13^th-century cathedral, an Old Town packed with authentic tapas and pintxos bars, and the iconic El Sardinero beach, a popular surfing spot. Temperatures here are cooler than in other parts of Spain – often remaining around a gentle 25C at the height of summer.

Marseille

Fly direct from Manchester to Marseille with Ryanair on Wed 12 Aug and return on Wed 19 Aug from £59pp return.*

France’s second-largest city is a wonderful city break destination in its own right. It started life as an ancient Greek colony and some of the Greek ruins are still visible near the city’s port. The surrounding streets are packed with fine dining restaurants, museums and galleries. Head out of the city to the east and you’ll find yourself in the Calanques National Park, a stunning stretch of coastline with stony beaches nestled in narrow bays under towering cliffs.

Kalamata

Fly direct from Manchester to Kalamata with easyJet on Tue 11 Aug and return on Tue 18 Aug from £76pp return.*

Kalamata is perhaps most famous for its olives – but its beaches are not to be overlooked either. The city is on the Peloponnese peninsula at the southern tip of the Greek mainland, and has roots tracing back nearly 3,000 years. Its Old Town, medieval castle and nearby Ancient Greek sites – plus the fantastic family-run tavernas – make it a great city break option but the nearby Bouka beach, a more than two mile long stretch of golden sand, means a day at the beach is very much on the cards for visitors, too.

Plus three classic destinations that cost under £100 to get to from Manchester Airport

Ibiza

Fly direct from Manchester to Ibiza with Jet2.com on Mon 10 Aug and return on Tue 18 Aug from £62pp return.*

Ibiza has established for itself a reputation as Europe’s party central – but the north and east of the island, away from its airport, the busy port city of Eivissa and its beachfront superclubs, you’ll find relaxed, family-friendly resorts facing golden, sandy beaches.

Mallorca

Fly direct from Manchester to Palma de Mallorca with easyJet on Wed 12 Aug and return on Tue 18 Aug from £43pp return.*

Mallorca is one of the most popular beach destinations for travellers from Manchester, with more than a dozen flights per day at the height of summer, and it’s easy to see why. There’s something from everyone, from the party scene in Magaluf on the island’s western edge, to the serene and peaceful coastal towns in the north, to the family beach resorts on the eastern side – and cultural highlights in Palma, the island’s capital.

Milan

Fly direct from Manchester to Milan Malpensa with easyJet on Wed 12 Aug and return on Thu 20 Aug from £67pp return.*

Milan, a global centre of fashion and sport, is popular year-round with weekend trippers – but at this time of the year many visitors are taking advantage of its proximity to the stunning Italian Lakes. The largest – Lake Maggiore – is only around 10 miles from Milan Malpensa Airport, and you can also reach Lake Como in 35 minutes by public transport. This region boasts stunning scenery, some of Europe’s best lake beaches – and a slightly cooler summer climate.

To save money when booking your holiday flights this summer:

-          Check prices regularly – and if you see a deal you like the look of, don’t hold off. Travellers are booking later this summer, so last-minute deals are there to be had – but don’t cut it too fine.

-          If you know you love the seaside resorts of Spain, or the whitewashed villages of Greece, expand your horizons and look at parts of the country you haven’t visited before. Manchester Airport flies to dozens of destinations in these countries and if you’re willing to be flexible on where exactly you go, you might nab a better deal.

-          Working parents will tend to book a calendar week or two off work during the school summer holidays and theferore they tend to want to fly at the weekend, or as close to is as possible, to maximise their time away. As such, you could save significant sums on your flights if you’re willing to travel between Tuesday and Thursday.

*Prices quoted are available when booking directly through the relevant airline’s website from Manchester to the destination specified, on the dates specified, and are accurate at the time of publication. Optional extras like hold luggage and seat selection may not be included.

>   Things like scissors, cork screws and toy guns may seem innocent but are not allowed through airport security

>   In just a single morning this month almost 100 items had to be confiscated

Manchester Airport has showcased a selection of items its security officers were forced to confiscate in the space of just one morning as it reminds its passengers of hand luggage rules as the busy school summer holiday period begins.

Among almost 100 items removed from bags in Terminal 2 security in a single morning this month were 24 packs of cosmetic products, seven drinks bottles and seven food items – including two multipacks of yoghurts. Most of these failed to comply with liquid restrictions, requiring anything that can be sprayed, spread or poured at room temperature to be packed in containers with a capacity of under 100ml.

Airport security regulations are set and monitored by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) – and as it stands, a 100ml limit for hand luggage is still in place on liquids at most UK airports, while hubs including Manchester wait for the CAA’s approval to remove these restrictions, following the installation of new 3D scanning technology.

Also removed from bags were 12 pairs of scissors, seven corkscrews, four knives, and six packs of tools – plus two loose chisels and a pair of pliers. In each case, these items broke CAA rules prohibiting sharp objects or blades with a length of more than 6cm (2.3in) in your hand luggage.

10 toy guns or items resembling firearms were confiscated – including a BB gun with two packs of ball bearings, three NERF guns, and household items including a handgun-shaped whisky decanter set. Anything that is designed to look like a firearm, or could be disguised as one, cannot be carried in hand luggage. This includes items like toys – which could be painted or adapted to more closely resemble a real weapon.

A baseball bat and a leg massager were also confiscated – in both cases because of their potential to be used as a weapon.

Passengers travelling during the busy summer period are reminded that attempting to bring non-compliant items through airport security causes delays for themselves and for others. Airport security bosses are encouraging them to reacquaint themselves with the rules for hand luggage before packing for their journey.

"We’re looking forward to welcoming millions of passengers to Manchester Airport this summer. We’re proud of the role we play in getting people’s journeys off to the right start, and more than 97% of our passengers are getting through security checks in under 15 minutes.

“But each time we have to pull a bag aside for a manual search it can take several minutes, and that can quickly start to add up and create delays - not just for the passenger with a non-compliant item in their hand luggage, but also for those waiting behind them in the queue.

“The range of items confiscated here in just a few hours shows what our security officers are up against every day – but when it comes to working out what is restricted and what is not, we know some items are more obvious than others. If you take a moment to reacquaint yourself with the rules before packing your hand luggage, it can save you lots of time when you get to Security – and avoids you losing items like water guns or bottles of suncream that you want to take on your holiday with you.

“In many cases, items like these which may fall foul of hand luggage restrictions can be taken in your hold luggage – so if in any doubt, pack the item in your suitcase rather than your carry-on bag.”

Sakib Mahmood – Security Duty Manager (T2), Manchester Airport

Passengers are encouraged to be alert to items which might contain more than 100ml of liquid. Everyday items from children’s squishy toys to souvenir snow globes could inadvertently break the rule. Liquid medications over 100ml are exempt – provided you have a prescription label clearly displayed – as is breast milk in containers of up to 2L.

Large electrical items no longer have to be removed from your bag, thanks to the new 3D scanning technology now installed in both of Manchester Airport’s terminals. However, items such as belts and watches should be removed and pockets emptied before stepping through the body scanners, to avoid triggering them. These items should be placed inside your hand luggage before you place it into your tray at security. Doing this while you wait in the queue – rather than when you get to the front – can save valuable time.

Items that contain lithium batteries – such as power banks, vapes and tablet computers – may pose a fire risk if faulty so must be packed in your hand luggage, rather than your hold luggage, to allow easy access in the event of an emergency. You cannot fly with more than two power banks per person, and these must not be recharged in flight.

Manchester Airport’s landmark project to reimagine one of the iconic chandeliers that featured in Terminal 1 when it opened in the 1960s is now the subject of a new documentary.

Over the last three years the airport has undertaken a project to take one of the old chandeliers and reimagine it to become a breathtaking art installation in its brand new, £1.5bn Terminal 2.

The final piece of art – titled Atmospheric Reflections of the North – now hangs in the new state-of-the-art security hall, welcoming passengers to the ‘super terminal’.

The 20-minute documentary was created in collaboration with OddFilms, a Wythenshawe based media company that is part of the Businesses in Wythenshawe (BW3) forum which the airport supports.

Using behind the scenes footage and interviews, the film highlights the various steps, challenges and emotions on the way to the project’s final installation in May 2026. This included the airport’s collaboration with Manchester School of Architecture students, the intricate methods used by leading artist Liam Hopkins of Lazerian, to deliver the project and the celebration as they were unveiled.

The documentary reveals the unique characteristics of the artwork, including the use of parachutes as a tribute to the airport having been a home to a parachute training facility in the Second World War and design details nodding to the flight paths planes use as they leave the airport.

Airport colleagues who have worked on the project and worked with the chandeliers when they were in Terminal 1 were also included in the documentary. Simon Cave, now a senior engineer at the airport, speaks about his time as an apprentice changing the lighting in the original Terminal 1 chandeliers and Rob Sawyer, airport duty manager and airport historian, recounted the chandeliers’ grandeur when they were revealed to the public as Terminal 1 opened in 1962.

The documentary demonstrates the chandeliers’ role in celebrating colleagues and partners of the Terminal 2 transformation, and other key stakeholders who will each receive a unique tag that matches up with ones attached to the parachutes in the terminal.

Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director at Manchester Airport said:

“Here at Manchester Airport we are proud to connect the North to the World and the reimagining of our famous chandeliers – Atmospheric Reflections of the North – is a great way of illustrating that sense of pride.

“This documentary demonstrates the thought and the sheer amount of people involved from the start to the finish of this amazing project. It showcases the creativity behind the new installation that celebrates the airport’s long history serving its passengers, colleagues and local communities.

“The artwork will be a lasting legacy recognising all colleagues involved in the programme to transform Terminal 2.

“I hope everyone enjoys the documentary as much as I have.”

Andy Ellis, Jamie Shelton & Louis Briggs at OddFilms said:

“One of the things we love most about documentary filmmaking is uncovering the stories people might otherwise never see.

“These chandeliers have quietly been part of Manchester Airport's history for generations, so capturing their journey, from careful restoration to their new home in terminal 2, was a genuine privilege.

“It's a story about craftsmanship, heritage and giving something iconic a new lease of life and we hope the film allows people to see this incredible piece of art in a new light.”

The Sainsbury’s Local, located in T3 Arrivals, makes Manchester the third UK airport to host a Sainsbury’s store – joining Edinburgh Airport, where Sainsbury’s opened its first airport store in 2024, and London Luton.

The store, which is expected to create 24 jobs, will offer a carefully curated selection of Sainsbury’s great value, high-quality convenience products, from meal deals and food on the go to a wide range of home and kitchen essentials.

The new store will also allow customers to order online from Sainsbury’s much-loved Argos and Habitat brands for collection, providing easy access to thousands of products.

Terminal 3 is currently undergoing a multi-million pound revamp, with a new 400+-seat sports bar opening earlier this year in the Departure lounge and an Italian eatery, Terracotta, set to follow later this year. The terminal has increased in size following the closure of Terminal 1 earlier this year, with some of that terminal’s floorspace annexed into T3.

Richard Jackson, Retail Director at Manchester Airport, said:

“It’s wonderful to see such an iconic name joining the line-up of places to eat, drink and shop in Terminal 3. We know when passengers arrive back into the country after a trip abroad, they value the convenience of being able to pick up the essentials they need to restock their fridges or kitchen cupboards right here. This is a great addition to our retail options in T3 Arrivals and I’m sure it’ll prove very popular.

"The added bonus of being able to collect your Argos or Habitat orders from this store means you can order something while on holiday and pick it up as soon as you arrive back at the airport – or order essentials for your trip and pick them up before you check in for your flight.”

David Pilbeam, Sainsbury’s Director of Acquisitions, Capital Projects and Engineering, said:

“We’re delighted to have opened our brand-new Sainsbury’s Local in Manchester Airport today, where we’re excited to play a key role in the ongoing regeneration of Terminal 3.

"We’re passionate about bringing more delicious Sainsbury’s food to more customers in more locations throughout the UK. Part of this includes our continued expansion into key transport hubs like UK train stations and, more recently, airports.

“I’m looking forward to seeing our third airport store build on the success of our first two as we bring some of the best of Sainsbury’s convenience offer to the busy passengers and colleagues in Manchester Airport, 24 hours day."

The Manchester Airport Skills Hub, which launched in June 2025, is a partnership between the airport and Trafford & Stockport College Group (TSCG). It aims to create an industry-led talent pipeline that supports the future of aviation in the North – teaching transferrable skills but also providing young people and adults with the sector-specific knowledge and insights that they will need for a successful career in aviation.

The Skills Hub builds on an existing partnership between the airport and TSCG that has seen more than 2,500 jobseekers progress into employment through the on-site Academy since 2012 – and aims to reach up to 4,000 people in the next five years.

The Future Talent Pathways programme engages with employers across the airport site, with the objective of opening up more entry-level opportunities for young people. The programme has reached 104 young people in its first year – exceeding an ambitious target of 100. More than 90% of Year 2 Aviation Operations learners have now progressed into roles at Manchester Airport.

Other highlights from the Skills Hub’s first year include;

• 329 adult jobseekers supported through pre-employment programmes against a target of 300, with 27 participating employers, significantly expanding recruitment reach for young people not in education, employment or training (NEET).
• A 100% pass rate and 90% Merit/Distinction achievement for apprentices across the airport site.
• 29 existing airport employees engaged in pilot workforce development and upskilling programmes including 14 colleagues at the airport’s special assistance provider ABM completing Level 2 leadership qualifications and receiving national Rising Star recognition.
• The project and MAG won the Business Engagement Award at the prestigious Educate North Awards, recognising its innovative employer-led approach to developing aviation skills, creating employment opportunities and supporting workforce resilience.
• Further recognition followed at the Trafford & Stockport College Group Partnerships in Excellence, Apprenticeship and Skills Awards, where Manchester Airports Group was named Overall Partner of the Year.

Marcella M’Rabety, Head of Social Sustainability at Manchester Airport, said: “At Manchester Airport we’re proud to serve the people of Greater Manchester and the North, and we do that not only by connecting people to their destination of choice, but also by giving local people the opportunity to access rewarding and fulfilling careers.

“The Skills Hub is a key part of our strategy to open up even more opportunities, particularly for young people including NEETs looking to take their first step on the career ladder. I’m delighted that, as we mark World Youth Skills Day, we’re able to reflect on a really successful first year for the Skills Hub, with career opportunities created for more than 100 young people. Not only have we helped people into careers at the airport, we’ve also helped some of our existing employees to upskill and given adults who have been out of education or employment the chance to build the skillset necessary to find a job.

“We’re not content to stop there, however. We have ambitions to reach over 4,000 people in the next five years and that will include the launch of a virtual Airport College for 16- to 19-year-olds, along with expanding our range of pre-employment courses.”

James Scott, CEO, Trafford and Stockport College Group, said:

“Our partnership with Manchester Airport is helping young people develop the skills, experience and confidence needed to go on and build successful careers in aviation.

“Through the Skills Hub, students gain a deeper understanding of the industry, while employers benefit from access to a pipeline of talented future employees.

“It's fantastic to see so many young people already progressing into roles at the airport, demonstrating the positive impact that can be achieved when education and industry work together.”

The ‘Check In & Check Yourself’ campaign will feature on digital advertising screens around Manchester Airport from 20^th July to 7^th September.

Breast cancer is the most diagnosed form of cancer among women in the UK, with almost 60,000 new cases each year. Recent polling by Breast Cancer Now and YouGov reveals a deeply concerning trend: nearly half (45%) of UK women fail to check their breasts regularly, and over 1 in 10 have never checked themselves at all, with hectic lifestyles and a lack of habit frequently cited as primary barriers.

That means many women only notice changes when they escape their daily routine and stresses for a well-earned holiday – including four women who are sharing their stories as part of the Check In & Check Yourself campaign.

62-year-old Kath Pryer, from Prestbury in Cheshire, was soaking up some winter sunshine in the Caribbean in January 2023, when she noticed some soreness and discomfort in her right breast while lying on her front.

She explained: “I don’t lie on my front very often, so initially I didn’t think anything of it, but a few days later I could feel it again. After the third time, I started to get more concerned, to the point where I was lying awake in bed one night – on my back this time – and that’s when I felt a lump.

“When I arrived back in the UK I went for a scan and was diagnosed with breast cancer. Straight away I started a course of IV chemotherapy, followed by a lumpectomy and five sessions of radiotherapy. Later that same year, I got the all-clear.”

Kath is clear that it was her change of environment in being on holiday that led to her realising something was wrong. She added: “I don’t think I would have found it otherwise. What I’d say to women travelling on their holidays this summer is: check thoroughly, check regularly and if you do find something you’re not happy with, don’t put it off – see somebody.”

Margo Cornish, Patron of the BooBee Campaign and Prevent Breast Cancer, said: “Going on holiday can actually be a great opportunity for women to take care of their bodies and potentially catch any signs of breast cancer early.

“The relaxed atmosphere and lack of distractions while on holiday makes it easier to notice any changes in your breasts, like lumps or differences in appearance. Even simple things like putting on sunscreen or trying out a new sunbed position could help you spot any symptoms – so this campaign is really about ensuring women are aware of what to look for, and we’re very grateful for Manchester Airport’s support. The digital screen ads in the terminals will offer a timely reminder as people prepare to jet off on their summer breaks.”

As part of the awareness campaign, a ‘BooBee bus’ will be parked outside Terminal 2 on the afternoon of Wednesday 22^nd July – where airport passengers will be able to drop in to find out more about signs and symptoms, how to check themselves, the importance of establishing a routine, and what to do if they have any concerns.

Nikki Barraclough, chief executive of Prevent Breast Cancer, said: “Breast cancer is the most common female cancer in the UK, affecting almost 60,000 women every year. Early diagnosis is key, which is why it’s so important that women take time to check their breasts regularly and see a doctor straight away if they notice anything different. Checking your breasts each month might just save your life.”

For more information on the campaign visit https://www.boobee.co.uk/check.

With most schools breaking up for summer on Friday, Manchester Airport is to welcome a record-breaking number of passengers over the next six weeks.

As the UK’s biggest and best-connected airport outside London, Manchester Airport will see more than 5.7m passengers flying in or out between Friday and the end of the holidays on 1 September – or more than120,000 per day.

Those passengers will benefit from the airport’s newly completed Terminal 2 and the ongoing work to improve Terminal 3 following the closure of Terminal 1 – meaning wherever people are travelling to this summer, they will get a better experience than ever at Manchester Airport.

They will get an award-winning experience with Terminal 2 recently scooping the Airport Expansion Award at the NCE Airport Awards to go alongside the UNESCO-backed Prix Versailles for architecture and design.

The summer holidays follow hot on the heels of a record-breaking June. Just more than 3m passengers travelled last month – making it the airport’s busiest June on record.

And they got a good service, with 92% waiting 10 minutes or less to get to security so they could relax in the airport’s departure lounges before their flights.

The completion of the airport’s £1.5bn transformation programme has improved the choice passengers get in its terminals.

In Terminal 2, new retailers including Coach, Reiss, Jo Malone and Tom Ford have joined designer outlets like Chanel in the Boutique Mall area.  The airport-first market hall style eating area the Great Northern Market recently opened along with the airport’s new lounge – The Executive. 

While work to expand Terminal 3 has begun and around 500 new seats have already been added through the new Sporting Chance bar, more details on the plans for further investment are coming soon.

Airport bosses have given a list of top tips and hints aimed to help passengers have a smooth and stress-free trip if they are heading away this summer – and among them is a reminder to plan ahead of they are travelling by public transport with work due to start on the tram network this week.

Jennifer Byrne-Smith, Director of Customer Operations at Manchester Airport, said:

“Here at Manchester Airport we’re proud to connect the North to the world and the summer holidays are like the World Cup to us – it’s the time of year we work towards and prepare for so that we’re match-ready as our passengers arrive.

“Over the last few years we’ve put so much work into improving every part of the passenger journey – from improvements around our car parks and drop off areas, right through the £1.3bn transformation of our state-of-the-art Terminal 2 to the work we’ve done on the airfield that is helping us offer more flights to more destinations than ever before.

“We’re all really excited to share that with passengers due to travel this summer and give them a really great start top their holidays – but we also wanted to take the chance to share a few of our top tips.

“The main one is to make sure you’ve planned your journey to the airport. There’s a bit of work happening on the tram network that could affect you if you were planning to take public transport.

“Apart from that I’d recommend people pack smart – that can save you time, effort and money. If you don’t have to check in a hold bag you can get to security and into the departure lounges in a matter of minutes after arriving at the airport – that’s especially true now thanks to our next generation scanners which mean you no longer have to unpack your electronics and liquids under 100mls.”

Manchester Airport’s top tips for travellers:

Before leaving:

·       Check the weight of your luggage before leaving for the airport. If you only need to bring down the weight of your luggage a little bit, try wearing the heaviest items of clothing in your bag – it may save you paying for extra luggage

·       To prepare your outfit for security, wear shoes that you can take off and put on easily. Avoid fiddly belts or fastenings in your clothes and excess jewellery. Try and keep your pockets empty of non-essentials

·       Temperatures aboard flights can vary so wearing a few removable layers is advised. An extra jumper can always be used as a pillow if nothing else

·       Check your luggage allowance with the airline you are flying with – the sizes vary and you don’t want to be stuck with extra luggage at check-in before your flight

·       Consider using night-before bag drop if it is available for you – your airline’s website should tell you. Many airlines allow passengers to check in hold bags the night before. You’ll be able to park for free while you do it and it beats queues in the morning when check-in is busier

·       Decorate your luggage with something very recognisable like colourful ribbons or stickers so you can easily spot your luggage on the baggage carousel. Alternatively, track your luggage with Bluetooth luggage tags

Travelling to the airport:

·       Plan your journey – remember to check for any roadworks on your route or around the airport, and plan your journey accordingly

·       The most stress-free parking to book is Meet & Greet – drive your car up next to the terminal and drop off your keys, and your car will be waiting for you when you get back

·       To avoid forgetting where you have parked, take a quick picture of your parking spot and the surrounding signs to easily locate it on your return

·       If you struggle with late night or early morning car trips to or from the airport, there are many hotels nearby and on-site, so you’ll be just minutes from each terminal

At the airport:

·       Remember that you no longer have to remove liquids under 100mls or electronics from your bags at security. But you can’t travel with liquids of more than 100mls – that can include unexpected things like children’s ‘squishy’ toys and things like snowglobes as they often contain liquids or gels. The rules say that if something is pourable or spreadable at room temperature you cannot have more than 100mls of it in your hand baggage. If in doubt – put things like squishy toys in hold baggage

·       You’ll also be asked to remove loose outer clothing like jackets and coats and metal items like belts

·       If given the choice of security lanes, pick the left. Most passengers are right handed and will subconsciously prefer the right, making the left a little quieter.

·       If you want to grab a bite to eat but are nervous your meal will take too long to be served, check to see if the restaurant has an express menu. Many airport restaurants have a menu which they will guarantee a fifteen minute maximum preparation time

·       If you have more time and prefer to relax before a flight, the airport offers lounges with unlimited Wi-Fi, a freshly prepared buffet and a complimentary bar

The airport’s £1.3bn improvement programme is wrapping up this year. It means the vast majority of passengers – everyone except for Ryanair passengers – will now use the airport’s state-of-the-art new Terminal 2, which has already won the Prix Versailles for architecture and design.

The full footprint of the new Terminal 2 is now open to the public and the final few retailers and features have been opening over the last few weeks and months. New arrivals in the departure lounge include a Fever Tree bar, the Great Northern Market food hall, a Chanel store and more.

The airport also recently announced that its first Wetherspoon’s pub – to be named the Belle Vue after the historic Manchester stadium – will open in Terminal 2 in September. 

The expansion of Terminal 2 has led to the closure of Terminal 1, the oldest part of the airport. It has also allowed work to start on a project to revamp Terminal 3, adding extra space and facilities – including the new Sporting Chance bar, which opened earlier this year.

As Manchester Airport constantly grows, more and more passengers visit every year. A key focus is giving passengers a wide choice in where they can visit across the globe - but before the airport is able to open new routes a huge amount of planning is necessary.

In this month’s Life at MAN, we had the opportunity to speak to Leo Coussement- Senior Strategy Analyst- as he shares some of the statistics recorded to prove the crucial benefits behind every new route.  Written by Bronte Birch.

How long have you been working at Manchester Airport? 

I joined Manchester Airport in late 2016, meaning I’ve been part of the community for almost 10 years - much to my surprise considering how fast this decade at the airport has been for me!

What does your job involve on a typical day? 

Me and the team are constantly working on varied parts of work across the airport. For example, the strategy team supports many different people around the business who will come to us for any enquiries or problems to do with data that need to be answered or solved; usually involving aviation data.

This means my usual day-to-day involves working very closely with the rest of the aviation development teams. Our job is to go out and sell routes to airlines. For destinations the airport doesn’t fly to, we establish that passengers do still fly there but by travelling to different airports. This is proven by bringing airlines sets of data over a period of time to back up our claims- often consisting of if people are travelling direct or not from existing routes with different airlines, and domestic UK routes such as travelling by train. This is done to hopefully convince an airline that there are benefits in launching a new route to a destination from at least one of the MAG airports. 

We also tend to keep track of current popular destinations and give that data to the media team for promoting; but in reality, anyone in the business with questions about aviation can be answered with our figures and understanding.

What is the most memorable thing you’ve worked on? 

A memorable example would be our success in beginning a route to Shanghai with Juneyao Airlines a few years ago. We had all been working on the commencement for at least 5 years, so it was a major accomplishment for the business and our consistent determination. There have been many more memorable moments, making it hard to pin one in particular, but the major route launches are hard to forget!

What do you enjoy the most about working at the airport? 

Particularly for our team, the constant variety of things we can get involved in helps give us a wider understanding of the airport and the detail of every role we are associated with. I am usually involved in aviation, but we often get asked questions across the business that aren’t always strongly linked to passengers or airlines. The range of knowledge and data we have means that different topics and areas of the business can often involve us in the behind-the-scenes of their roles and experiences. It’s as if the airport is a small city, giving us broad exposure to many jobs I would never know about if I wasn’t part of aviation – widening my perspective significantly!

How did you get into your job, and what kind of qualifications or skills are needed? 

I have been part of aviation for my entire career, after getting a degree in it at university. For one season, I worked as cabin crew for easyJet before working for a small airline in the operations department- making sure flights and passengers were punctual. I now work as Senior Strategy Analyst but have always had experience in different parts of the industry. You don’t necessarily need qualifications for the job but the main skill I believe is crucial is being analytical in order to problem solve with logic and data; as well as having the ability to explain your point clearly.

What one piece of advice would you give to someone considering a career at the airport? 

The airport is an incredible place to work! Being open to moving about in different jobs really gives you the full picture; MAG is excellent at supporting those who want to change their role or job in the business, as I constantly experience this happening with colleagues. Moving around the roles at the airport creates great skills for each individual - many even return to their past role with the experience gained to perform at a greater standard in the job they truly loved at the airport! Entering MAG with an open-mind instead of focusing on one role with allow you to explore all the exciting opportunities and expertise that are offered to you.

What do you like to do when you’re not at work? 

I’m involved in a lot of running in my spare time; even running the Manchester Marathon last year and will be doing it again! I was a member of a gliding club in order to learn to fly, I plan to join back when i have some time or possibly trying to get my Private Flying Licence- a target for the future.  

Which destination that we fly to do you most want to visit? 

It’s going to have to be Singapore; me and my partner have visited Asia a few times but never been to the country. One of my friends lives there and is extremely positive about it, it just seems like an incredible place to experience for myself!

Thomas Tuchel’s men face off against Erling Haaland and Norway this weekend, before a potential semi-final against either Argentina or Switzerland next Wednesday, 15 July. If they were to lose that game, they’d take part in a third or fourth place playoff on Saturday 18 July – but if they emerged victorious, they’d find themselves in a World Cup Final for the first time since 1966 on Sunday 19 July.

The next week and a half could yet be one of the most memorable in England fans’ lifetimes – and there’s some good news for those in our region thinking of making a last-minute dash to be part of the action. Manchester Airport is the only hub in the UK outside London to offer direct flights to all three potential venues that England could play at – and there are still seats available.

Here we look at the permutations on the route to the final – and how you can get to each game from Manchester, if you want to soak up the atmosphere.

Quarter Final – Florida – Saturday 11 July

Fly direct from Manchester to Orlando with Virgin Atlantic tomorrow from £1,019 per person one-way.*

The bookies make England slight favourites to overcome Norway on Saturday evening – which would set up Harry Kane and his colleagues for two more matches before the tournament is out, whatever happens.

The game will be played at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida – home of NFL franchise the Miami Dolphins. Seats are still available on a Virgin Atlantic flight from Manchester to another Floridian city, Orlando, tomorrow afternoon – from where you could hire a car and enjoy a road trip through the Sunshine State, watching England at the end of it.

A four-hour route would take you via Cape Canaveral, launch site for man’s first trip to the moon in 1969; Palm Beach – where Donald Trump has his winter residence at Mar-a-Lago; and the state’s famous Everglades.

Semi Final – Atlanta – Wednesday 15 July

Fly direct from Manchester to Atlanta with Virgin Atlantic on 12 July from £1,247 per person one-way.*

If they find a way past Norway, England will come up against either Lionel Messi’s Argentina or Switzerland, a side they beat at Euro 2024. The game will take place at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Wednesday next week.

At the time of writing, tickets are still available on Virgin Atlantic’s flights from Manchester to Atlanta on every day between now and the game. The cheapest flight available is on Saturday, at £1,187 per person one-way* but would mean missing the quarter final. A better option for Three Lions fans is to take the flight on Sunday instead – at just £60 more – and enjoy two full days in Atlanta before the big game. The city’s World Cup fan festival is centred on the Centennial Olympic Park and will be a hive of activity – particularly if Argentina get to the semi-final, with a large Latin American population in the city.

Third / Fourth Place Playoff – Florida – Saturday 18 July

Fly direct from Manchester to Orlando with Virgin Atlantic on 14 July from £817 per person one-way.*

If they should beat Norway but fall to either Argentina or Switzerland, it’ll be back to Miami for a playoff game against the other losing semi-finalist to decide who takes third place. England fans might not really want to consider this right now – but with less interest in this game than in the final, you might even have an opportunity to nab a match ticket last-minute at a reasonable price and see Thomas Tuchel’s team in the flesh.

A flight next Tuesday would also let you take in England’s potential semi-final on the Wednesday - and the World Cup final - at Miami’s fan festival in Bayfront Park, a short distance from the city’s stunning South Beach.

Final – New York / New Jersey – Sunday 19 July

Fly direct from Manchester to New York with Virgin Atlantic on 16 July from £651 per person one-way.*

The cavernous MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, facing the famous skyline of Manhattan across the Hudson River, will host the World Cup Final a week on Sunday. By this point, the race will have been run for 46 of the 48 teams who contested this expanded tournament – and if they win their next two games, England will be one of the final two teams standing.

You can still get to New York from Manchester in time for the final with Virgin Atlantic from as little as £651 per person one-way* and be part of this once-in-a-lifetime experience – where special memories will be made even if England don’t contest the final. It’s the perfect excuse to check out the Big Apple’s iconic sites, too – from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building and the Rockefeller Center, which coincidentally hosts New York’s World Cup fan festival. Regardless of where in the city you watch the game, the atmosphere is sure to be unforgettable.

*Prices quoted are available when booking directly through the relevant airline’s website from Manchester to the destination specified, on the date specified, and are accurate at the time of publication. Optional extras like hold luggage and seat selection may not be included.

Links between our region and Norway go back more than 1,000 years, when Vikings settled the North West coast. They left their mark in place names like Formby, Crosby and Ormskirk, in the architecture of some of our region’s oldest churches, and in our genes – with a study showing that up to 50% of the DNA of long-established families living in the Wirral is Scandinavian. 

Manchester Airport continues those traditions of connections between our region and Norway, hosting the country’s flag carrier airline, Norwegian, and offering flights to no fewer than five destinations across the length of the country.  

If this weekend’s game has piqued your interest in paying a visit to Norway – or even if you want to make a short-notice trip to watch the game there - the UK’s global gateway in the North has you covered.  

Here we take a look at what you might experience when you get there, from winter sports and famous art to mouthwatering food and epic scenery. 

Oslo 

Fly to Oslo with easyJet from £56pp return*. Norwegian also serves Oslo from Manchester. 

There are a huge range of experiences you can have in Norway’s capital, which come together to make it an appealing option for a city break. Explore its thriving harbour, warm up in a floating sauna on Oslofjord, enjoy a performance at the Oslo Opera House – an iconic piece of modern architecture – and take in the stunning views from its rooftop. Perhaps the most memorable thing to see here though is Edvard Munch’s The Scream, a globally renowned painting set on the city’s waterfront and displayed in the Munch Museum. 

Sandefjord 

Fly to Sandefjord with Ryanair from £30pp return* 

Ryanair offers a direct service from Manchester to Sandefjord, about an hour south of Oslo. Many use this airport as a means of getting to the capital but it also gives you the opportunity to explore a stunning stretch of rural coastline and traditional fishing villages on the Oslofjord, as well as the Skrim-Sauheradfjella nature reserve, with jaw-dropping hiking trails through mountains and coniferous forests which are dusted with snow in winter. 

Bergen 

Fly to Bergen with Norwegian from £118pp return*. 

Bergen, on the west coast of Norway, makes a great base to explore the country’s famous fjords. You can book a half-day boat tour or a more extensive package, and take in natural wonders like the 600ft-high Vøringsfossen waterfall. Bergen itself has plenty to keep you entertained, including colourful wooden houses along the harbourfront - where restaurants serve up gravlax (cured salmon), one of the country's culinary highlights - and a funicular railway ascending Fløyen Mountain, offering panoramic vistas and walking trails. 

Tromso 

Fly to Tromso with Norwegian from £127pp return*. easyJet also serves Tromso from Manchester. 

Tromso is the most northerly major city in the world and is a fantastic place to explore the great outdoors year-round, whether you’re taking in the Northern Lights in winter, or the Midnight Sun in the summer. Whale watching tours give you the chance to spot humpback whales and orcas, while reindeer-drawn sleigh rides let you take in the scenery up close. It's also a very popular destination for cross-country skiing.

Stavanger 

Fly to Stavanger with Norwegian from £110pp return*. 

This city in the south west of the country is one of Norway’s cultural highlights. Gamle Stavanger, the historic city centre, is lined with timber-framed buildings dating from the 18^th and 19^th centuries, while Fargegaten (the ‘Colourful Street’) boasts specialty coffee shops, boutiques, and galleries. The ‘pulpit rock’, a 2,000ft-high cliff overlooking the Lysefjord, is a noteworthy Instagram spot. 

*Prices quoted are the cheapest available between now and 31 December 2026 when booking directly through the relevant airline’s website from Manchester to the destination specified, and are accurate at the time of publication. Optional extras like hold luggage and seat selection may not be included. 

Last Friday, Manchester Airport saw its first flights to a brand-new destination. 

easyJet will fly twice per week to the Italian city of Bari, famous for great beaches, delicious Italian food and amazing architecture.

Here we look at some of the top things to do in or around Bari.

Old Town 

The old town (Bari Vecchia) is the historic heart of Bari and one of the city's most interesting places to explore. Its narrow streets are full of beautiful old buildings, churches and small squares. 

Boat trip 

You can take a boat trip along the coast. This offers a different view of Bari's coastline, allowing visitors to see the city from the sea. Many tours include opportunities to swim in the clear waters and explore nearby coastal areas. 

Fish market  

The Bari Fish Market near the harbour is a lively place where fishermen sell fresh fish caught that same morning. People who visit can sample a wide variety of authentic Italian seafood and experience the daily life of the local community.  

Petruzzelli Theatre 

The Petruzzelli Theatre is one of Italy's largest and most beautiful opera houses. It hosts operas, concerts, ballet performances and many other cultural events throughout the year. Even if you don't take in a performance, you can still attend as guided tours allow visitors to admire its elegant architecture and rich history. 

Castello Normano  

Bari's Castello Normano is a Norman Swabian castle, a large medieval fortress that has protected the city for centuries. Visitors usually go to explore its towers, walls and museum which displays historical artifacts and exhibitions.   

Via Soprano 

Bari's main shopping street is the perfect place to buy designer clothes or just simply get souvenirs. The street is lined with fashion stores, cafes and boutiques, and offers a pleasant atmosphere and plenty of places to get coffee or gelato. 

Local food 

Bari is well known for its traditional cuisine. Some famous local dishes include Orecchiette pasta, fresh seafood and creamy burrata cheese. Eating at local restaurants or cafes is a great way to experience the city's culture and you will be spoilt for choice in Bari.  

Bari cathedral 

Bari cathedral is dedicated to Saint Sabinus. This is an impressive Romanesque church featuring beautiful stone architecture and peaceful interiors.