Airport operator Manchester Airports Group (MAG) has unveiled a £1bn (US$1.5bn) investment program for Manchester Airport, which will deliver a series of 60 enhancements over a 10-year period.
Key elements of the Manchester Airport Transformation Programme include: the expansion and reconfiguring of Terminal 2 (T2) to become the airport’s primary terminal building; the improvement of Terminal 3 (T3); the introduction of new and enlarged airside transfer facilities, including direct linkage between T2 and T3; a US pre-clearance facility; introduction of the latest technology in a new, enlarged security hall; the installation of new self-service check-in facilities; the addition of approximately 50 food and beverage and retail outlets; the construction of new stands and piers; and improved road access for passengers traveling to and from the airport.
The transformation program will be delivered in multiple phases in order to minimize disruption to airport operations and passengers. It will also be delivered within the current airport footprint, making the best use of the existing terminal campus area.
Charlie Cornish, chief executive of MAG, said, “Manchester Airport has responded well to the considerable changes in the aviation industry over the last 20 years and we have invested heavily to meet the needs of our airline customers, passengers and local communities.
“Today, we’re setting out how the airport will contribute to the development of a northern powerhouse and demonstrating the dynamic, can-do spirit that sums up the region. The transformation program will ensure Manchester Airport plays its full part in driving economic growth and develops as a key part of the UK’s transport infrastructure, within a nationwide network of competing airports.”
Commenting on the announcement, George Osborne, Chancellor of the Exchequer for the UK, said, “Today’s announcement of £1bn (US$1.5bn) of private sector investment in Manchester Airport is a massive vote of confidence in the North of England and in our plan to build a northern powerhouse.
“The investment, which will completely transform Manchester Airport and double its capacity, will help ensure that it continues to compete with global airports across the world. It will play a key role in this one nation government’s plan to rebalance the UK economy and boost productivity and is fantastic news for working people across the north.”
