The new £1 billion Terminal Two extension at Manchester Airport will open to its first passengers this week.
Jet2 and TUI flights will be among the airlines to operate from the new building that was initially expected to open last summer but was delayed because of coronavirus pandemic restrictions on international travel.
First flights will depart on Wednesday as part of a phased introduction of flights with Jet2 flying to Menorca, Ibiza and Palma de Mallorca on the first day.
TUI will operate flights from the terminal from Thursday with services to a range of destinations including green-listed Malta and Madeira.
Singapore Airlines will begin to operate from the new terminal on Saturday and further announcements over airlines are expected ahead of the next review over the traffic lights travel system on Thursday ahead of the amber list exemption for double vaccinated passengers from July 19
Karen Smart, managing director of Manchester Airport, said: “After a long wait, we are delighted to confirm the first passengers will be able to enjoy our new Terminal Two this week.
"It is a proud milestone for our airport as we begin to emerge from the restrictions brought about by the Covid-19 crisis, and an important moment in our 83-year history.
“The impact of the pandemic on the travel industry means we are not able to immediately welcome as many customers and airlines into this fantastic new facility as we would have hoped. As Government restrictions continue to be eased, and travel to more destinations is opened-up in the weeks ahead, we will be making further announcements about the carriers and retailers operating from T2.
“In the meantime, we look forward to celebrating this milestone and welcoming those who are travelling through the new terminal later this week. I would also like to thank all our colleagues and partners for their hard work and dedication in getting us to this point.”
The expanded terminal has a light, bright and airy check-in hall. Once bags are dropped-off, passengers will head into the new security area, which has 10 lanes that are 29 metres long.
There will be a host of retail and food and drink venues to passengers, initially, including Pret-a-Manger, Costa Coffee, KFC, The Amber Alehouse, operated by Seven Brothers Brewery, and The Bridgewater Exchange.
Two airport operated lounges will also open, offering passengers additional luxury and a relaxing space pre-flight.
The lounges will have a combined capacity of 400 passengers and will be located on the upper level of the enlarged terminal. They are accessed from the main departure lounge and both benefit from floor to ceiling windows, providing panoramic views over the airfield.
Escape Lounge prices start from £19.99 and 1903 Lounge from £32.50. Both can be booked online at www.manchesterairport.co.uk/at-the-airport/airport-lounges/
Those arriving will also find a new immigration facility, which is four times larger than the current space, and a spacious, bright arrivals hall.
In addition to the new terminal, the T2 Multi Storey West, and the pre-existing T2 car park, now known as T2 Multi Storey East, will be open for passengers flying through the extended terminal from Wednesday.
To book, visit: www.manchesterairport.co.uk/parking/
