The free event at The Forum, Wythenshawe, on Wednesday 4 November will connect jobseekers with employers operating across Manchester Airport. Free tickets are now available at www.manchesterairport.co.uk/jobs-fair/, with booking in advance highly recommended to avoid disappointment. 

Manchester Airports Group (MAG), which owns and operates Manchester Airport as well as East Midlands and London Stansted Airports, will be advertising vacancies including airport security, hospitality and terminal operations roles.

Other positions available with airport-based employers range from ground handling and passenger assistance to retail, catering, construction, recruitment, logistics and aviation support services.

Employers represented at the fair will include:

Accessorize

Bethell Construction Limited

DHL

dnata Catering & Retail UK

First Call Aviation

HMSHost by Avolta

JD Wetherspoon

Lagardère Travel Retail

Manchester Adult Education Service

MAG

MAN Fire Service

Mitie Limited

Morson Group

National Careers Service

Premier Jet Support

Pret A Manger

Smart Works

Swissport

Unifi Aviation

As one of the region’s largest employers, we’re proud to work alongside our partners to create opportunities for local people – and the aviation industry is a particularly exciting one to work in.

“This jobs fair is a fantastic chance for jobseekers to meet employers face-to-face, learn more about the wide variety of roles available at the airport and take the next step in developing their careers. With around 300 vacancies at the moment, there are opportunities for people with a wide range of skills and experience.

“We want Manchester Airport to be one of the best places in the world to travel from, and if you’ve got the passion and drive to help us make that happen, we’d love to see you at this event.”

Tina Edwards – People Director, Manchester Airport

The Airport Academy, which is run in partnership by Manchester Airport and Trafford & Stockport College Group (TSCG), will also be in attendance promoting its free pre-employment support programmes. These include fully accredited training schemes for people seeking support before applying for airport roles.

The jobs fair will take place between 10am and 2pm, with attendees encouraged to bring copies of their CV and be prepared to speak directly with recruiting employers.

Jobseekers securing roles with MAG can take advantage of a wide range of benefits. These include discounts on public transport when travelling to work, free on-site car parking whilst working and when going on holiday, an excellent pension scheme, training programmes, retail discounts and many more benefits. More information is available at www.manchesterairport.co.uk/recruitment.

From The Executive in Terminal 2 – which opened in July promising a best-in-class experience, airport-first carvery and chef-led dining – to Escape, a budget-friendly lounge in both terminals suitable for families with a relaxed atmosphere and buffet menu, there is something to suit all tastes.

And for passengers looking for the ultimate upgrade, Manchester Airport is also home to aether, its dedicated private terminal, where guests can enjoy private security, an exclusive lounge and chauffeur-driven transfers directly to and from their gate.

Whatever your preference, the airport has you covered – and here, we run through your options.

Escape Lounge

Available in: Terminals 2 and 3.

Prices from: £36.99 in Terminal 2; £31.99 in Terminal 3. Children under 3 go free of charge.

Highlights: Family- and budget-friendly, relaxed atmosphere and buffet service.

Escape is open to customers travelling with any airline and in any ticket class, offering a tranquil retreat ahead of your flight for families, couples, solo travellers and business travellers alike. Available in both Terminals 2 and 3, Escape provides a relaxed space to eat, work or unwind, with freshly prepared hot and cold buffet food available throughout the day. Guests can also enjoy premium wines, beers and spirits, including fizz, as well as unlimited hot and soft drinks. Flight information screens and charging points mean passengers can keep an eye on their journey while their devices recharge.

For a limited time only, children can access Escape in either T2 or T3 for just £10* using the code MANT2OCT26 when booking the T2 lounge online, or MANT3OCT26 for the T3 lounge. See https://escapelounges.com/uk/airport-lounges/manchester/terminal-3/ for more details on the offer.

The Executive

Available in: Terminal 2.

Prices from: £57.99.

Highlights: An airport-first carvery service, outstanding runway views and premium menu.

Designed for both leisure and business travellers, The Executive combines sophisticated interiors with attentive service and floor-to-ceiling runway views. Its chef-led dining experience includes made-to-order dishes in a theatre kitchen setting and barista coffee, in addition to a hot food buffet plus deli and salad choices, accompanied by a selection of premium alcoholic and soft drinks. On Sundays, a carvery is available – a unique offering for a UK airport lounge.

aether

Available in: Premium terminal, open to passengers from all airlines.

Prices from: £199

Highlights: Rapid security screening, an exclusive premium lounge, chauffeur-driven transfers to your aircraft gate.

Passengers looking for something even more unique and memorable can opt for aether, Manchester Airport’s premium terminal.

Located in a standalone, intimate facility away from the main terminals, aether - which marks its second anniversary in November - is open to passengers regardless of airline or ticket class and offers an airport experience more typically associated with private aviation.

Upon arrival, guests enjoy panoramic airfield views from an exclusive lounge space and a carefully curated menu by award-winning chef Adam Reid. When it’s time to board their flight, guests are whisked through a private security check, with no waiting around, and then taken to their aircraft gate by private chauffeur.

The service is open to passengers travelling with any airline – although it's worth noting that hold luggage is only available to passengers flying with a partner airline (Airline Partners | aether).

Tom Waldron, Chief Experiences Officer at CAVU, said: “We’re proud to offer a diverse array of hospitality experiences at Manchester Airport, whichever airline you’re flying with and whichever terminal you’re travelling from.

“Our lounges are growing in popularity and we think that reflects the level of care and attention to detail that has gone into crafting these spaces and experiences. The quality of the facilities on offer in Terminal 2, after its decade-long £1.3bn transformation, means you can expect a best-in-class experience from the moment you arrive, and our purpose built lounge spaces are designed to complement that. Terminal 3 is now also receiving a multi-million pound investment and our Escape lounge gives those passengers the perfect spot to start their journeys.

“On top of that, we have a truly outstanding premium offering at aether, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a VIP experience.”

Other options.

Escape, The Executive and aether are all operated by CAVU, a subsidiary of Manchester Airports Group (MAG) – and are open to passengers travelling with any airline. However there are other options on site, too - depending on who you’re flying with and which terminal you’re travelling from.

Aviation services company Swissport operates Aspire lounges in each terminal. Guests can enjoy buffet service and relaxed spaces. The Aspire lounges are available to book for passengers travelling with any airline.

Emirates has also opened a dedicated lounge in Terminal 2, for its First Class and Business Class passengers, as well as Emirates Skywards Platinum and Gold members – with exclusive features like direct boarding, and a curated menu inspired by the flavours of the North.

* Available on new bookings made between 21 September 2026 and 31 October 2026 for travel up to and including 31 December 2026. Terms and conditions apply.

This Sunday (18 October) is Anti-Slavery Day, an annual campaign that raises awareness of modern slavery, human trafficking, and exploitation. Tens of thousands of people are estimated to be exploited across the UK through forced labour, human trafficking, domestic servitude, and sexual / criminal exploitation. 

In a special edition of our monthly Life at MAN feature, we spoke to Claire Featherstone, Global Supply Chain Director for CAVU - the arm of MAG that operates Manchester Airport's executive lounges and aether premium terminal, along with managing the airport's website and online booking platforms. Claire tells us about the action MAG takes to eliminate forced labour and exploitation in its supply chain - and how colleagues from across the business can help tackle these practices and end human trafficking and modern slavery.

Tell us a bit about your role as Global Supply Chain Director and what that means day to day?

As Global Supply Chain Director, I'm responsible for helping ensure that CAVU has the suppliers, contracts, systems, and commercial arrangements in place to support our growth plans. That includes everything from technology and construction projects through to food and beverage, operational services and the products that help our airports and travel businesses run day to day.

The role is really varied. One day I might be working on a major commercial negotiation, the next supporting a business transformation programme or working with colleagues to improve supplier performance and reduce risk. Both MAG and CAVU are highly dependent on suppliers to achieve our business goals, so ultimately, my role is about making sure we work with the right organisations,  achieve value for money, and build a resilient, sustainable supply chain.

What attracted you to a career in supply chain and procurement?

My first job was in logistics, organising urgent aircraft charters for the automotive industry. From automotive I moved to aerospace and gained experience in a more strategic procurement role. I realised that Procurement sits at the intersection of people, strategy, operations, and finance, so you get exposure to almost every part of a business.

Over time, what has kept me interested is the opportunity to make a real difference. Good procurement isn't just about negotiating contracts or reducing costs - it's about solving problems, building strong relationships, supporting business growth, and helping organisations make better decisions.

What part of your role do you think people would be most surprised to learn about?

Many people assume procurement is mainly about cost and contracts. But a significant part of our role is understanding how products and services are delivered, where they come from and whether they are being provided responsibly and ethically. That means looking beyond price and considering issues such as sustainability, human rights, modern slavery, supplier resilience and how organisations treat their people.

Why is tackling modern slavery an important part of the work your team does?

As an airport group and international travel business, we rely on a large and diverse supply chain. That gives us both an opportunity and a responsibility to influence positive behaviour and help protect people who may be vulnerable to exploitation.

When people think about procurement, they often focus on cost. But cheaper is never better if it comes at the expense of treating people fairly and responsibly. The organisations we choose to work with should share our values and our commitment to doing business in the right way.

Modern slavery can often be hidden from view, which is why it's important that we continually strengthen our processes, challenge ourselves and work closely with suppliers to identify and address risks wherever they may arise. MAG partners with Ecovadis, a global sustainability ratings service with a focus on Labour and Human rights, and Slave Free Alliance to support the identification and management of modern slavery risks.

How do we work with suppliers to make sure they're meeting the standards we expect?

We set clear expectations from the outset and work with suppliers as partners to help achieve them.

Our Supplier Code of Conduct outlines the standards we expect suppliers to meet across areas such as sustainable supply chains, health and safety, modern slavery, ethical business conduct and respectful treatment of people. We also expect suppliers to comply with the Modern Slavery Act 2015 and to work collaboratively with us to identify and manage risks within their own supply chains.

Alongside contractual requirements, we carry out due diligence, sustainability assessments and ongoing supplier engagement. The aim isn't simply to audit suppliers, but to build transparency, encourage continuous improvement and work together to find solutions where risks are identified.

What can colleagues across MAG do to help spot and prevent potential exploitation or modern slavery?

The most important thing is recognising that this isn't something that sits solely with a specialist team. Everyone has a role to play.

Be curious, pay attention to things that don't feel right and never assume someone else will raise a concern. Modern slavery can take many forms and often isn't immediately obvious.

If something doesn't seem right, whether that's unusual working conditions, concerns about the wellbeing of individuals or behaviour that appears exploitative, colleagues should speak up. MAG provides routes for raising concerns confidentially and takes all reports seriously.

Ultimately, preventing modern slavery starts with looking out for people. If we all remain vigilant and continue to challenge behaviour that falls below our standards, we can play an important role in helping protect both passengers and those working throughout our supply chain.

The UK’s global gateway in the North rounded out its most successful summer yet with a record-breaking September.

More than 3.1m passengers passed through Manchester Airport during the month – with 98% of travellers waiting for 15 minutes or under to get to get to security and 91% waiting 10 minutes or under.

September is traditionally a very busy month for Manchester Airport – but it sees a shift in the profile of travellers after the school summer holidays. While the majority of travellers during July and August are families, in September there is a rise in solo travellers and couples.

That is because holiday prices are typically between 20 and 40% lower than the peak summer months – but in most popular holiday hotspots the weather is still just as good as in August.

The most popular route during September was to Mallorca – with other mediterranean destinations like Alicante, Antalya and Tenerife making up much of the top ten. Among the most popular long-haul routes was Orlando, with almost 25,000 people heading to the Floridian favourite.

The busy month means Manchester Airport has seen its most successful summer to date thanks to its brand new, £1.5bn Terminal 2 now being fully open to the public, with the final retail outlet – its new Wetherspoon’s pub the Belle Vue – opening a few weeks ago.

Manchester Airport Managing Director Chris Woodroofe said:

“Seeing so many passengers passing through the UK’s global gateway in the North during September has been really exciting.

“One of the great things about having the UK’s strongest route network outside London is that we can continue to offer great value and choice into the shoulder season and beyond and we've seen our passengers taking advantage of that.

“During the summer we opened two exciting new options in our brand new, £1.5bn Terminal 2 in the shape of the Belle Vue - our first Wetherspoon’s pub - and our luxurious new Executive and Aspire lounges.

“It means our passengers can benefit from the full range of facilities in our super-terminal and I’ve been hearing great things about the new additions."

Over recent weeks there have also been some important travel announcements relating to the airport. Firstly, London Northwestern Railway announced it will introduce a new direct train service linking Birmingham and Stoke-on-Trent directly to Manchester Airport from next year.

Secondly, just this week, Network Rail announced a major £115m investment into the Manchester Airport station to boost connectivity. Once complete, the improvements will allow longer trains to serve the station and improve the way trains move in and out of it. The upgrades will strengthen Manchester Airport’s role as a gateway for business, tourism and international travel and support future passenger growth.

The work project will be delivered by the middle of 2028 and begins later this year. It will see the station briefly close to trains on Sunday, December 2026 for one day only as engineers begin work.

The two organisations are strengthening their existing partnership to help inspire and prepare the next generation of aviation talent, creating more tailored opportunities for learners and supporting the future workforce needs of the aviation sector.

The enhanced MAG-endorsed Aviation Operations programme was showcased at a special event at Trafford & Stockport College Group yesterday, attended by industry leaders, partners, staff and students. 

Guests were given an exclusive look at the college's new-look Aviation Department, which is officially MAG-branded as part of the partnership.

The Aviation Operations programme gives learners a behind-the-scenes look at airport operations, alongside work placements and opportunities to explore careers in the industry. Through closer collaboration with MAG, the programme has been further developed to bring industry insight directly into the classroom, ensuring learners gain the skills, knowledge and experiences most relevant to today's aviation sector.

Delivered through the two organisations' Manchester Airport Skills Hub partnership, the programme is part of the newly launched Airport Futures initiative, helping learners explore the many career opportunities available at Manchester Airport and beyond. The Skills Hub partnership aims to engage with at least 150 young people during the 2026/27 academic year across aviation, engineering, digital, hospitality and other curriculum areas.

More generally, the programme forms part of the Manchester Airport Skills Hub's ambition to build a strong future talent pipeline for the aviation industry. By working together to shape and enhance the curriculum, TSCG, MAG and other airport employers are ensuring learners benefit from industry expertise, meaningful employer engagement, workplace experiences and clear pathways into careers across the airport and wider aviation sector.

Available from Level 1 to Level 3, the programme has been enhanced through employer collaboration to give learners the experience and skills they need to pursue careers in operations at the airport, air traffic control, cargo and dispatch, and management.

Students enrolled on the programme will benefit from a wide range of employer-led opportunities including the chance to hear from guest speakers working across the aviation industry, along with mock interviews, support into employment, work experience opportunities, live employer challenges and airside tours.

Successful completion of the programme can lead to employment, apprenticeships, higher education and various exciting careers within Manchester Airport and the wider aviation industry.

Among the guest speakers at yesterday’s launch event for this year’s programme was Sam McCarthy, a graduate from a previous version of the course who has now secured a full-time role at the airport as an Airfield Planning Assistant, helping device and manage schedules for crucial airfield maintenance in between scheduled flight movements.

Sam said: “Coming here today and seeing how much is now involved with this partnership is amazing. It’s incredible to see how this programme has developed and how it is bringing airport careers to life for learners. The range of guest speakers they’re going to hear from, the chance to explore the airport, to gain industry placements and to go on airside tours, will give these young people so many opportunities and will genuinely open doors for them.

“When I started out on this journey, I didn’t really know what my end goal was or what I wanted to do when I finished it, and a big part of the appeal of this course is that it gives you the opportunity to sample so many different parts of the airport operation and work out what interests you. It was a real eye-opener for me and I know it will be for this year’s students, too.”

Dozens of first-year and second-year students enrolled on the course were also at the launch event. One of them, Amir Kane from Ancoats, is currently taking a Level 1 Aviation Operations course and is due to start the Level 3 programme next year.

Amir said: “For me, the aviation syllabus I’m being taught is the most exciting thing. When you go through the education system you’re taught about maths and science in very general terms, but here I get to learn about something I’m actually passionate about. I’ve always been fascinated by planes and aviation; when I was a child my dad would drive me down to the Airport Pub to watch the planes coming and going. For MAG to go into partnership with Trafford College and create this course makes me feel I can see a pathway to the kind of career that I want, and that is incredibly exciting.”

Tracey Wood, Chief Commercial Officer at TSCG, said: “At Trafford & Stockport College Group, we are passionate about creating impactful opportunities that help our learners succeed and develop the future talent our employers need.

“This enhanced Aviation Operations programme, delivered in partnership with Manchester Airports Group, is an exciting next step in the growth of the Manchester Airport Skills Hub, building on the strong foundations already established through our collaboration.

“By working closely with industry, we are creating relevant programmes that are designed with employers, for employers — connecting learners with industry expertise, hands-on experience and clear pathways into employment.

It is about making sure our curriculum keeps pace with the needs of the sector, while giving our students the skills, knowledge and confidence to thrive and helping employers develop the workforce they need for the future.”

The launch of the new programme and MAG-branded department coincides with today’s publication of the airport group’s annual Sustainability Report. MAG, which also owns and operates East Midlands and London Stansted airports, has reaffirmed itself as an industry leader in its support of skills and employment initiatives – and the report reveals it has supported more than 6,000 young people with their education across FY26.

Last year’s launch of the Skills Hub, in partnership with TSCG, is part of a five-year sustainability strategy that aims to create an industry-led talent pipeline that supports the future of aviation in the North. The strategy also aims to reach school-aged children, with more than 12,000 local school pupils to be welcomed to the airport’s on-site AeroZone education centre in the five-year reporting period.

In addition to education and skills, the Sustainability Report also shows that Manchester Airport is excelling in areas like environmental sustainability – with 100% of its waste diverted from landfill for the first time and 25% reused or recycled, along with a 2.5% year-on-year reduction in aircraft emissions – in addition to facilitating more than £30m of contracts for local small and medium-sized businesses through its Meet the Buyers events and donating more than £120,000 to good causes through its Community Trust Fund.

MAG CEO, Ken O’Toole, said: “Aviation offers a broad range of careers, but it is important that young people can see those opportunities from an early age, and develop the skills and experience needed to access them. This programme is a great example of how we're working with education partners to create clear pathways into employment.

“As a major employer across the North, Midlands and South, MAG has a significant role to play in providing skills and employment opportunities that allow surrounding communities to thrive.

“The progress set out in our annual Sustainability Report demonstrates the positive impact our approach is having on real people across the country, alongside developments to achieve our decarbonisation target of net zero carbon operations by 2038, and in our approach to targeted and effective community engagement.

“Creating a pipeline of future talent for our industry is vital to its future success, and MAG is playing a significant role – working together with Government, regulators and industry partners - to deliver that.”

If you’d like to find out more about the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Aviation Operations, visit https://trafford.tscg.ac.uk/our-courses/.

Manchester Airport is one of Greater Manchester’s most important economic assets. It is far more than a transport hub: it is an international gateway to our city region that connects businesses, people, skills, investment and ideas.  For companies across Greater Manchester, particularly those trading internationally, access to a major airport on their doorstep is a significant competitive advantage.

The airport’s extensive international connectivity enables businesses to reach customers, suppliers and partners around the world without routinely travelling through London or other European hubs.  This matters particularly to Greater Manchester’s strengths in advanced manufacturing, professional and financial services, digital and technology, life sciences, education and the visitor economy.  Direct, point to point connections make the city-region more attractive as a location for inward investment which is well supported by Invest Manchester and help locally based companies grow overseas.  The airport aids Greater Manchester’s wider ambition to compete internationally as a place to invest, work, study and visit.

The scale of that connectivity is substantial.  Manchester Airport has recently been handling around 32 million passengers annually, following major investment in its facilities, while Greater Manchester’s own investment material has long presented the airport as being at the heart of the city-region’s transport infrastructure.  Continued development of routes and capacity therefore matters directly to the future competitiveness of the regional economy.

Its economic influence goes well beyond passengers and flights.  The airport and the businesses around it create employment, generate demand through extensive supply chains and support sectors including logistics, hospitality, tourism, retail, construction and professional services.  The World Freight Terminal is itself part of the region’s commercial infrastructure, reinforcing Manchester’s role as a trading city.  Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce (GMCC) have identified that skills are equally important: collaboration between employers, education providers and initiatives based around the airport can help create pathways into employment and ensure that local people benefit from future growth, which is fully in line with the goals of the Local Skills Improvement Program (LSIP).

For Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, Manchester Airport is especially significant because connectivity, international trade, skills and economic growth are central concerns for our members.  As the UK’s largest Chamber, connected to over 50,000 businesses across the city-region, we consistently hear how important reliable domestic and international connections are to business confidence and investment decisions.  Our policy and research work, including the Quarterly Economic Survey and the LSIP gives us a strong evidence base from which to represent those business needs.

The relationship is also tangible:  the Chamber currently trades from the World Freight Terminal at Manchester Airport. That physical presence underlines how closely the airport, international commerce and the Greater Manchester business community are connected.

GMCC therefore has an important role in championing the airport while constructively representing the priorities of businesses.  That includes supporting continued investment and better surface transport connectivity, promoting international trade opportunities, helping develop the skills pipeline and ensuring that growth is sustainable and delivers benefits across all ten Greater Manchester boroughs.  We are currently in discussions with overseas locations who are keen to connect with our city.

Manchester Airport is ultimately part of Greater Manchester’s proposition to the world.  A successful, well-connected and ambitious airport strengthens the whole city-region. For the Chamber and the business community we represent, its continued success is not simply an aviation issue; it is fundamental to trade, investment, productivity, employment and Greater Manchester’s long-term economic prosperity.

The airport’s unrivalled network of more than 200 destinations, served by more than 50 airlines, gives you the opportunity to see how spooky season is marked across Europe and beyond – and explore attractions from the macabre to the bizarre.

Here we round up some of the best last-minute deals available for families looking for a thriller of a half-term getaway.

‘Dracula’s Castle’, Romania

Fly direct from Manchester to Bucharest with Ryanair from £125pp return.

High in the mountains to the north of Romania’s capital Bucharest is Bran Castle – a gothic medieval fortress clinging to a rock face that is thought to have inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula. The castle hosts a week-long Halloween Festival in the run up to the 31^st – which this year, happens to coincide perfectly with October half term. The tour features costumed actors, Dracula-themed exhibits and tours, and a Halloween party in a neighbouring park.

Spooky family fun in Denmark

Fly direct from Manchester to Copenhagen with Ryanair from £171pp return.

The Danish capital’s Tivoli Gardens, a much-loved amusement park in the heart of the city, lays one a one-month Halloween extravaganza throughout October. An open-air stage hosts artistic performances, special Halloween-themed rides appear for a limited time only, and the park is decked out in Halloween décor including more than 20,000 jack-o-lanterns.

‘Europe’s Largest Halloween Festival’, Derry

Fly direct from Manchester to Derry with Ryanair from £75pp return.

Derry’s world-renowned Halloween Festival celebrates its 40^th anniversary this year. The festival, which is billed by the organisers as the largest of its kind in Europe, includes light shows, acrobatics, musical performances and ghost tours around the city’s supposedly haunted sites. An epic fireworks finale on Halloween night takes place over the River Foyle.

Ghost bus tour and medieval mysteries in Dublin

Fly direct from Manchester to Dublin with Ryanair from £34pp return.

Dublin today is a vibrant and modern metropolis, but a dark history lies underneath – and the operators of the city’s award-winning Ghost Bus Kids Tour bring that history to life, with a tour storyteller keeping the whole family entertained as they explore the city’s past. The city streets are filled with decorations as Halloween draws near, and a number of the city’s popular historical sides have spooky stories attached to them.

Delve into the underworld in Prague

Fly direct from Manchester to Prague with Ryanair from £120pp return.

Prague’s medieval network of underground tunnels and passages have plenty of haunting stories to tell and are a great starting point for exploring this city, with its stunning gothic architecture and a storied history that mingles with myth and legend. The Prague Botanical Garden hosts a family-friendly program on Halloween itself, featuring lantern-making workshops, roasted sausages, and an evening lantern parade through the illuminated grounds.

Mid-Autumn traditions in Barcelona

Fly direct from Manchester to Barcelona with Vueling from £106pp return.

In Catalonia, 31 October is La Castanyada – a traditional festival marking the start of the darker months. The symbol of the festival is the chestnut seller, an elderly woman in a headscarf who roasts nuts over an open fire. It’s traditional to buy roasted chestnuts, sweet potatoes and other snacks from street vendors on this day – but more modern Halloween traditions are also seeping in, and at the city’s Poble Espanyol museum hosts a family-friendly festival with potion workshops, haunted tunnels and DJ events in the evening.

Visit Frankenstein Castle in Germany

Fly direct from Manchester to Frankfurt with Lufthansa from £196pp return.

The medieval Frankenstein Castle on the edge of Darmstadt, near Frankfurt, is the setting for Mary Shelley’s much loved gothic horror novel. The building is more than 800 years old – and is supposedly inhabited by a plethora of ghouls, including a sleeping dragon and a coven of witches. It’s closed for renovation at the moment – but the nearby Königstein Castle is hosting the annual Frankenstein Halloween Festival. Also nearby is the Black Forest – which gave rise to many of the Brothers Grimm’s fairy stories.

Peek behind the mask in Venice

Fly direct from Manchester to Venice with Ryanair from £111pp return.

Venice is the home of the masquerade party, which has become something of a Halloween trope. The flooded streets and alleyways of this unique city have stories of hauntings and dark history attached to them and there are plenty of ghost and mystery tours available. These stories and legends are also brought to life around this time of year by the city’s museums and galleries.

*Prices quoted are the cheapest available between 23 October 2026 and 2 November 2026 inclusive, 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.

The Sunflower Room facility is broken down into three sections – two of which are sensory rooms offering an array of interactive features, alongside a quiet room space to act as a retreat from the hustle and bustle of the terminal, with comfortable seating, low-level lighting and minimal stimuli.

Features of the two sensory rooms include bubble tubes, infinity mirrors, light projectors, adjustable lighting including brightness and colour, and weighted, padded furniture. The design of the rooms and the different types of furniture on offer accommodate for passengers who wish to sit, stand, or lie down when using these spaces. At the entrance are flight information screens, so that passengers using the facility can quickly and easily check for updates and information.

Ed Kibblewhite, Head of Terminal Services at Manchester Airport, said: “We’re proud to offer a world-class experience in our award-winning Terminal 2, which is nearing the end of a decade-long transformation. This is the latest step in that journey and the facility that we are opening here really is at the cutting edge.

“Whether you’re looking to relax, reduce sensory input, or simply recharge, these spaces are available for you to use and do not need to be pre-booked.”

The rooms have been designed by Yorkshire-based sensory specialists AmbiSpace, with additional input from the National Autistic Society, the airport’s special assistance provider ABM, and the Manchester Airport Disability Forum – a committee of airport users with disabilities and restricted mobility who advise airport management on issues related to special assistance and accessibility. AmbiSpace has also secured a contract to maintain and manage the facility.

AmbiSpace’s Marketing Manager, Dean Cook, said: “We’ve previously worked on sensory rooms and quiet spaces in a range of environments, from prisons, to schools and colleges, to shopping centres – but this is the first time we’ve worked on a space like this in an airport, so it’s great to have been able to be part of this project.

“There was a long and meticulous design and consultation process for this space, and the goal was to have a diverse sensory area that could accommodate a range of needs. Different users of this space will have different needs as they relax ahead of their flights and in such a busy international airport, the full array of needs and preferences will be represented among the passengers travelling through, so we needed to be mindful of that.”

Emma Roberts, a Greater Manchester-based Project Officer for the National Autistic Society, took part in the consultation process and was present for the opening of the new facility. She said: “From the beginning we were clear about the need for different spaces. Every autistic person is different; some people find lights and bubbles regulating, some need movement, while others just need a quiet space to sit. By offering three distinct, private spaces, Manchester Airport is supporting passengers to feel calm and regulate before their flight.’’

“This space can absolutely become a part of the travel routine in Terminal 2 for autistic passengers and their travel companions, it will allow them to plan their journeys with much more confidence and will help ensure that holidays get off to the right start.”

Anwar Hussain, Contract Manager for Special Assistance provider ABM, added: “The opening of the new sensory space is something we are really excited about. It gives our teams another way to tailor the support we provide to each individual passenger and their needs. It is about making sure we are not just getting passengers from A to B but helping them travel in a way that works best for them. Every passenger is different, and this space allows us to recognise those differences and provide the support each person needs to have a positive journey.”

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.”