Manchester Airport Terminal 3 Refurbishment and Expansion
Manchester, UK · 2025–ongoing (announced May 2025) · Multi-million pound refurbishment (part of £1.3 billion wider transformation program)
The judgement call
Account-gated at launchThis refurbishment is part of a larger decade-long transformation program at Manchester Airport, aiming for a two-terminal operation (T2 and T3). - The project focuses on improving passenger experience, increasing capacity, and modernizing facilities. - The first sections of the upgraded terminal are expected to open in early 2026.
Key engineering challenges
Overhauling and expanding an existing terminal while maintaining operations and minimizing disruption. - Integrating space from the former Terminal 1 to increase Terminal 3's footprint. - Installing new security equipment and advanced security lanes. - Creating a new entrance, security hall, and departure lounge to enhance passenger experience and capacity.
Project facts
- Client / owner
- Manchester Airports Group (MAG)
- Lead contractor
- —
- Lead designers
- —
- Project type
- refurbishment | expansion | upgrade
- Scale
- 40% increase in seating; new entrance; expanded retail and dining options; enlarged arrivals area; repurposing space from former Terminal 1.
- Disciplines
- Civil; structural; architectural; airport planning; retail design; security systems
- Standards & frameworks
- UK Building Regulations; airport operational standards; security regulations
Sources: Wikipedia: Manchester Airport (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manchester_Airport) - Aviation Week: Manchester Airport To Expand Terminal 3, Repurpose Terminal 1 Space (https://aviationweek.com/air-transport/airports-networks/manchester-airport-expand-terminal-3-repurpose-terminal-1-space) - Airport Industry News: Improvement Work Begins at Manchester Airport's Terminal 3 (https://airportindustry-news.com/improvement-work-begins-at-manchester-airports-terminal-3/)