The Manchester Airport map below will help you navigate the UK's third busiest airport with confidence. Whether you need to locate your departure gate, find the nearest car park, or work out how to transfer between terminals, our detailed maps and layout guides cover everything. Manchester Airport (IATA: MAN) now operates two passenger terminals — Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 — following the closure of Terminal 1 in November 2025 as part of the airport's £1.3 billion transformation programme.
Manchester Airport Location Map
Manchester Airport is located 9 miles (14 km) south-west of Manchester city centre, near the village of Ringway in the borough of Wythenshawe. The airport's postcode is M90 1QX, and it sits directly off Junction 5 of the M56 motorway. This strategic position provides direct road access from across the North of England, the Midlands, and North Wales. The map below shows the airport's location and its proximity to the surrounding motorway network.
The airport is well served by public transport. Manchester Airport railway station is located between the two terminals and is accessible via the Skylink walkway. The Metrolink tram service also operates from The Station, providing a direct link to Manchester city centre and beyond. For full driving directions, including Sat Nav postcodes for each terminal, see our driving directions guide.
Terminal Map & Building Layout
Understanding the Manchester Airport terminal map is essential for a smooth journey. Following the major transformation programme, the airport now operates with two active terminals. Terminal 1 officially closed for departures on 19 November 2025, with its airlines relocated to the expanded Terminal 2. Parts of the former Terminal 1 entrance and security area are being rebranded as an extension of Terminal 3 in early 2026.
Terminal 2 — The Main Terminal
Terminal 2 is the heart of Manchester Airport and the result of the £1.3 billion investment programme. It is now the largest terminal at the airport, handling approximately 80% of all passenger traffic. The terminal features a modern departure lounge that has been doubled in size, a state-of-the-art security hall fitted with next-generation CT scanners, and two piers with flexible aircraft stands capable of accommodating aircraft up to the Airbus A380.
Terminal 2 is the base for the vast majority of airlines operating at Manchester, including EasyJet, Jet2.com, TUI Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Aer Lingus, and many more. The terminal also offers an extensive selection of shops, bars, and restaurants — including a market hall-style food court, a Champagne bar, and both high-street and luxury retail outlets. For a full list of airlines by terminal, check our dedicated guide.
Terminal 3 — Low-Cost & Domestic Hub
Terminal 3 is the smaller of the two active terminals and primarily serves low-cost and domestic routes. It is the main base for Ryanair at Manchester Airport, as well as a number of British Airways domestic services. Terminal 3 is undergoing its own multi-million pound refurbishment and expansion, which includes a new entrance area (using space from the former Terminal 1), an expanded departure lounge with 40% more seating, new food and drink outlets including a 500-seat bar, and an upgraded security hall.
Despite being the smaller terminal, Terminal 3 provides all essential passenger services including check-in desks, bag drop facilities, security screening, a selection of shops and cafés, and a dedicated arrivals area with baggage reclaim.
Important: Terminal 1 Is Now Closed
As of November 2025, Terminal 1 is no longer operational for departures. All airlines previously based in Terminal 1 have moved to Terminal 2. If you have an older booking that references Terminal 1, please check with your airline or visit our terminal guide to confirm your correct departure terminal. The former Terminal 1 entrance is being repurposed as part of the Terminal 3 expansion and will be rebranded in early 2026.
Walking Between Terminals on the Airport Map
Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 are connected by internal walkways within the airport complex. The walking time between the two terminals is approximately 10–15 minutes. The Skylink is an enclosed, elevated walkway system featuring moving travelators that connects Terminal 2 to The Station (the central transport interchange for trains, trams, and buses). From The Station, clearly signposted routes lead to Terminal 3. If you are making a connecting flight that requires changing terminals, allow at least 20–25 minutes for the transfer, including any additional security screening.
Parking Map & Car Park Locations
The Manchester Airport map includes several on-site car parks, all clearly signposted from the M56 motorway approach roads. Each terminal has its own dedicated parking options, and it is important to book the correct car park for your departure terminal to avoid unnecessary transfers.
Terminal 2 Parking Options
- Multi-Storey (T2): Directly connected to Terminal 2 via covered walkways. The closest and most convenient option for short trips.
- Short Stay & Mid Stay (T2): Located within a short walk of the terminal entrance, ideal for stays of a few hours to a few days.
- JetParks (T2): Budget-friendly long-stay parking with a 24-hour shuttle bus service to Terminal 2. Best for holidays and longer trips.
- Meet & Greet (T2): Drop your car at the terminal door and a valet driver parks it for you. Collect it from the same location on your return.
Terminal 3 Parking Options
- Multi-Storey (T3): The closest car park to Terminal 3, with direct covered walkway access.
- Mid Stay (T3): A short walk from Terminal 3, suitable for trips lasting several days.
- JetParks 1: Long-stay parking serving all terminals. Also functions as the free passenger drop-off zone, with a 24-hour shuttle bus to the terminals.
- Meet & Greet (T3): Valet parking service available at Terminal 3.
For the best rates, it is strongly recommended to pre-book your parking online. Prices increase significantly for drive-up bookings on the day.
Transport Hub Map — The Station
The Station is Manchester Airport's central ground transportation interchange and a key landmark on the airport map. It is located between Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 and is accessible from both terminals via the Skylink walkway system. The Station brings together rail, Metrolink tram, bus, and coach services under one roof, making it the main arrival and departure point for passengers not travelling by car.
Getting To & From the Airport
- Trains: Manchester Airport station is served by Northern Trains, TransPennine Express, and Transport for Wales. Direct services run to Manchester Piccadilly (20 mins), Liverpool Lime Street (90 mins), Leeds (90 mins), Edinburgh, Glasgow, and many other destinations.
- Metrolink Tram: The tram runs from the airport to Manchester city centre (Deansgate, St Peter's Square, Market Street, Victoria) every 12 minutes, with a journey time of around 35–40 minutes.
- Buses & Coaches: Over 500 bus and coach services operate daily from The Station, including the 24-hour 43 bus service to Manchester city centre.
- Taxis & Private Hire: Taxi ranks are located directly outside the arrivals area of each terminal. Pre-booked private hire vehicles also pick up from designated areas.
- Car Rental Village: A dedicated shuttle bus runs from each terminal to the Car Rental Village, where all major hire companies — including Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Europcar, and Sixt — are based.
- Driving & Drop-Off: The airport is accessed via Junction 5 of the M56. A free drop-off area is available at JetParks 1. Direct terminal drop-off is charged at a premium rate.
Key Facilities on the Manchester Airport Map
Both Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 provide a full range of passenger services and facilities. The selection is significantly larger in Terminal 2, which is the newer and bigger terminal, but Terminal 3 covers all the essentials. Here is where to find key facilities across the airport.
Before Security (Landside)
- Information Desks: Located in the main entrance halls of both terminals. Staff can help with directions, lost property enquiries, and general airport queries.
- Check-In Desks & Bag Drop: Terminal 2's check-in hall is on the upper level of the terminal. Terminal 3's check-in is located on the ground floor. Most airlines offer online check-in 24–48 hours before departure, allowing you to use the faster self-service bag drop desks.
- ATMs & Currency Exchange: Cash machines and currency exchange counters are available in the arrivals and departure halls of both terminals.
- Special Assistance: Passengers with reduced mobility or hidden disabilities should pre-book assistance through their airline at least 48 hours before travel. Dedicated meeting points are located near the entrance of each terminal.
After Security (Airside)
- Shops & Duty Free: Terminal 2 features an extensive retail area including World Duty Free, a LEGO store, designer boutiques, and a high-street style shopping area. Terminal 3 has a smaller selection including WHSmith, Duty Free, and convenience outlets.
- Restaurants, Bars & Cafés: Terminal 2 offers a wide range of dining, from a market hall-style street food court to sit-down restaurants, Wetherspoons, Nando's, and Costa Coffee. Terminal 3 has cafés including Caffe Nero and fast-food options.
- Airport Lounges: Both terminals have premium lounges available for purchase, including the 1903 Lounge and Escape Lounge in Terminal 2, and the Aspire Lounge in Terminal 3.
- WiFi & Charging: Free WiFi is available throughout the airport. Charging points and USB sockets are located in seating areas near the gates in both terminals.
- Departure Gates: Terminal 2 has two piers with flexible stands and air bridges. Terminal 3 has its own set of domestic and international gates. Gate numbers are displayed on the flight information screens throughout the departure lounges — gates are typically announced 60–90 minutes before departure.
Manchester Airport Map — Arrivals
If you are meeting someone at Manchester Airport or arriving on an inbound flight, the arrivals areas are located on the ground floor of each terminal. After landing, passengers proceed through immigration (for international flights), collect their baggage from the reclaim belts, and pass through customs before entering the public arrivals hall. From the arrivals hall, you can easily access taxis, buses, the Skylink to The Station, and the car park walkways.
Live flight arrival times are available on our arrivals board. If you are collecting a passenger by car, the free pick-up area is at JetParks 1, which is connected to the terminals by a 24-hour shuttle bus. Alternatively, a paid short-stay car park is available directly outside each terminal for quick pick-ups.
Manchester Airport Map — Departures
For departing passengers, the departure halls are located on the upper levels of each terminal. After checking in and dropping off any hold luggage, proceed to the security screening area. Terminal 2 features a brand-new security hall with CT scanners, which allow you to leave laptops and electronics in your bag during screening. After clearing security, you will enter the departure lounge with access to shops, restaurants, lounges, and the boarding gates.
It is recommended that you arrive at the airport 2–3 hours before a short-haul European flight and 3–4 hours before a long-haul international flight. Check-in desks and bag drop counters typically close 45–60 minutes before departure. For live departure times, see our departures board.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Manchester Airport Map
How many terminals does Manchester Airport have?
Manchester Airport currently operates two passenger terminals: Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. Terminal 1 closed in November 2025 as part of the airport's £1.3 billion transformation programme. Terminal 2 is the main terminal handling around 80% of all passengers, while Terminal 3 serves Ryanair and select domestic routes. Parts of the former Terminal 1 entrance and security area are being rebranded as an extension of Terminal 3 in early 2026.
How do I get between terminals at Manchester Airport?
Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 are connected via internal walkways within the airport. The Skylink moving walkway system links Terminal 2 to The Station (the train, tram, and bus interchange), and signposted routes from The Station lead to Terminal 3. The walk between terminals takes approximately 10–15 minutes. For connecting flights requiring a terminal change, allow at least 20–25 minutes.
Where is Manchester Airport located on the map?
Manchester Airport (MAN) is located 9 miles (14 km) south-west of Manchester city centre, near the village of Ringway. The airport postcode is M90 1QX. It sits directly off Junction 5 of the M56 motorway, making it easily accessible by road from across the North of England, the Midlands, and North Wales.
Where can I find a printable Manchester Airport map?
The official Manchester Airport interactive map is available at maps.manchesterairport.co.uk, where you can search for specific gates, shops, restaurants, and facilities across all terminals. Our location map above shows the airport's position relative to Manchester city centre and surrounding road network.
Where are the car parks on the Manchester Airport map?
Each terminal has dedicated car parks. Terminal 2 offers Multi-Storey, Short Stay, Mid Stay, JetParks, and Meet & Greet parking. Terminal 3 has Multi-Storey, Mid Stay, JetParks, and Meet & Greet options. All are clearly signposted from the M56 approach roads. A free drop-off zone is at JetParks 1, with 24-hour shuttle buses to both terminals. See our full parking guide for prices and booking.
What is the Skylink at Manchester Airport?
The Skylink is an enclosed elevated walkway system at Manchester Airport connecting Terminal 2 to The Station (the airport's rail, tram, and bus hub). It features moving travelators to assist passengers with the walk, which takes approximately 10–15 minutes. The Skylink also provides access to the Radisson Blu Hotel, which is directly connected to the airport.