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Manchester Airport is preparing for its busiest Christmas on record, with more than 1.5 million passengers set to travel through the airport between 19 December and 4 January.
Extra staff, festive surprises, and clear travel advice are all in place as the UK's largest airport outside London gears up for one of its most intense travel periods ever.
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The Predictions: Getting Busy
Around 1.5 million people are due to fly between 19th December and 4th January, with the busiest travel days forecast to be Friday Dec. 19th December and Sunday 28th December, when more than 100,000 passengers are expected on each day.
Christmas Day travel will see 85 departures and almost 35,000 passengers, this is in contrast to Orlando International Airport (MCO), where 111,419 passengers are expected to pass through the terminals on Christmas Day. That’s over three times as many passengers.
The new £1.3bn Terminal 2 is the main Terminal operating at Manchester Airport this Christmas, with all airlines except Ryanair arriving and departing here.
Why This Christmas Will Be Busier Than Ever
The festive surge follows a record-breaking November, when 2.2 million passengers travelled through Manchester Airport, which is a 4% increase on the previous record. The airport has been going through a lot of changes during this time too, which has caused disruption at times, but the airport has maintained performance.
Despite the higher numbers, airport performance has remained strong:
96% of passengers cleared security in 10 minutes or less
99% waited under 15 minutes
That efficiency is expected to continue over Christmas thanks to extra staffing and the expanded capacity of Terminal 2.
Terminal 2 Takes Centre Stage
Most Christmas travellers will pass through Terminal 2, Manchester Airport's newly transformed hub. Over recent months, airlines have steadily moved operations into the terminal, leaving Ryanair as the only airline not based there.
Terminal 2 offers:
More space and seating
High-tech security scanners
A wider range of shops, bars, and restaurants
Meanwhile, passengers using Terminal 3 will start to see early signs of its own upcoming expansion and improvements.
A Festive Airport Experience
Manchester Airport is leaning into the Christmas spirit, with festive touches across the terminals, including a visit from Santa himself.
Managing Director Chris Woodroofe shared that preparations are in place to deliver a smooth experience, even with record numbers. He also shared a handy tip for passengers taking gifts home this Christmas, saying:
"Of course, there are always things people can do to make sure their passage through the airport is smooth – including the simple things like checking-in ahead of time and packing smart, but also things like remembering not to take wrapped presents through security. You want your presents to be opened by your loved ones, not our security staff!"
Top Travel Tips for a Smoother Journey
Manchester Airport has shared practical advice to help passengers reduce stress during the busy period.
Before you travel
The advice for travellers this Christmas is to:
Check baggage allowances carefully, even for hand luggage
Roll clothes to save space
Ensure passports meet validity requirements
Plan journeys carefully, especially with winter weather
Consider public transport; the airport has direct train, tram, and bus links
Use online check-in and night-before bag drop where available
At the airport
Once at the airport, the following tips will help you to have a smoother experience this Christmas:
Prepare for security by removing coats, belts, and accessories
Liquids must still be 100ml or less, despite new scanners
Electronics can remain in bags
Only remove shoes if they have metal toe caps
Allow extra time, but expect queues to move quickly
Why This Matters for UK Holidaymakers
For families, couples, and international travellers heading to Disney World this Christmas, whether for Christmas sunshine or fun in the parks, this is a reminder that early planning makes all the difference.
With record numbers expected, knowing your terminal, packing smartly, and arriving prepared could be the key to starting your holiday stress-free.
Magic in a Minute
Manchester Airport is heading for its busiest Christmas ever so arrive prepared, skip the wrapped presents, and let the festive journey begin.