How early should you arrive at Manchester Airport before a flight?

Manchester Airport has shared advice to passengers including when they should arrive at the airport before a flight <i>(Image: Manchester Airport)</i>
Manchester Airport has shared advice to passengers including when they should arrive at the airport before a flight (Image: Manchester Airport)

Are you going on holiday abroad this year? Travelling through an airport can take a bit of time, especially if there are queues at security or check-in.

Airports across the UK ask that passengers arrive with a bit of time before their flight to help make their journey smoother, including Manchester Airport.

If you’re travelling via Manchester Airport this year, you might be wondering how much time you should spend at the airport before you’re flight – here’s what we know.

When should you arrive at Manchester Airport before a flight?

In an online passenger guide, Manchester Airport explained how early passengers should arrive before their scheduled departure time.

It encourages passengers to arrive at the airport “at least two hours” before their flight leaves.

To get a more specific arrival time, the airport says passengers must follow the guidance issued by their airlines.

It suggests that airlines usually recommend arriving three hours before a flight but check with your airline before getting to the airport.

If you get to the airport and are unsure where to check in, use the information screens to find your check-in desk.

Once you’ve checked in, you will head to security and then be able to enjoy the shops and restaurants in the departure lounge.


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Places to eat and drink at Manchester Airport

There are plenty of places to enjoy food and drinks once you have checked in - you can see them all via the website.

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Terminal 1 has options such as Burger King, Greggs and Pret-a-Manger.

Starbucks, M&S Simply Food, Costa Coffee and more can be found in Terminal 2.

Arriving passengers can enjoy food and drinks at places like Caffe Nero, and WHSmith and there is also a Hangar restaurant available.