Everything travellers need to know about Terminal 1: airlines, check-in, parking, shops, lounges, transport and accessibility.
Terminal 1 (T1) is one of Manchester Airport’s primary passenger terminals, servicing a mix of short-haul and long-haul carriers and offering retail, dining, lounge and transport options for departing and arriving passengers.
A variety of carriers operate from Manchester Airport Terminal 1 — from low-cost to full-service airlines. Always confirm your departure terminal with your airline or your booking confirmation before travel. Live flight operator lists and flight information are maintained on the airport website.
Tip: use the Manchester airport's live flight information pages on the day of travel for gate updates and delays.
Terminal 1 offers staffed check-in desks and lime-green self-service kiosks that let you print boarding passes quickly. If you have hold luggage, proceed to the bag drop after kiosk check-in. The airport recommends arriving early — most airlines ask passengers to arrive at least 2 hours before short-haul flights (longer for long-haul).
Follow the airport's security guidance on liquids, electronics and permitted items. Security wait times vary by time of day — consider Fast Track if offered by your airline or the airport.
Several parking options serve Terminal 1: on-site multi-storey short-stay, mid-stay, JetParks (shuttle), meet & greet and long-stay. Pre-booking is recommended to guarantee space and secure better rates. Prices and availability vary by date — book through the airport’s official parking pages for Terminal 1.
Note: Manchester Airport periodically updates drop-off systems (ANPR, barrierless lanes). Check the airport site before travel for the latest pick-up/drop-off rules.
Departures at Terminal 1 include a range of duty-free shops, cafés and sit-down restaurants. Passenger lounges (e.g., Escape Lounge and airport partner lounges) are available — book access in advance where possible. For the latest list of shops and dining outlets check the airport’s Terminal 1 service pages.
Family facilities, baby rooms and accessible toilets are available — locations shown on the airport maps.
Transport options include: direct train services to Manchester Airport station (serving all terminals), local trams (Metrolink via the airport station area), coaches and taxis. Driving directions and public transport timetables are on the airport site. Allow extra time for busy periods.
Manchester Airport provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility and other special assistance needs. Book assistance at least 48 hours before travel with your airline; contact the airport for terminal-specific support. See the airport's passenger guides for details.
Manchester Airport has delivered a multi-phase transformation across terminals. Future reconfigurations and investment programmes have been announced that may affect terminal assignments and spaces. If your travel date is far out, check whether your airline has moved to a different terminal as the airport updates facilities. (Example reporting on transformation and Terminal 1 reconfiguration has been published by industry press.)
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Manchester Airport Terminal 1. Policies, opening hours and services can change — always verify critical details (flight times, check-in requirements, and access) with your airline or the official Manchester Airport channels.
