Manchester Airport is urging passengers preparing for a Christmas getaway to follow the latest Covid restrictions and security rules.
Old school restrictions around liquids, gels and pastes remain, but are now joined by new Covid-specific measures which have been boosted with the rise of the Omicron variant - described on Wednesday as the 'most significant threat since the pandemic began'.
With Terminal 3 now closed, passengers are also asked to double check where their airline is flying from.
Bosses have issued the reminder amid plummeting passenger numbers following a boost to testing requirements as the Government tries to stem a new tide of infections.
Outgoing passengers are advised to check the specific requirements for destination countries, including testing protocol.
There are a number of testing centres on site provided by Randox and Collinson, including drive-throughs. You can book them here.
Passengers are encouraged to contact the operators of the testing centres if they have any queries about testing.
All arriving passengers, meanwhile, are required to take a PCR test on or before day two of their arrival and must self-isolate until they receive their results.
The test must be booked before arrival into the UK. All passengers must now also take a pre-departure test before coming into the UK. This can be a PCR or lateral flow test.
Hub bosses have appealed to the Government to drop the double test requirement as soon as possible amid plummeting passenger numbers.
Arriving passengers also still need to complete the Government’s Passenger Locator Form before travelling back to the UK.
The airport has its own measures, including Perspex screens and an enhanced cleaning regime, with 116 hand sanitising stations.
The airport also continues to follow the latest Government and Public Health England advice, with passengers and staff required to wear a face covering, unless they are exempt.
Karen Smart, Managing Director at Manchester Airport, said: “This is an important time of the year for our operation, with travellers seeking festive getaways or reunions with friends and family members living overseas.
“We take the safety of our passengers and colleagues very seriously and are committed to maintaining a Covid safe environment, which we hope travellers will take some reassurance from.
“Travel to most parts of the world is definitely still achievable, and we are looking forward to helping passengers on their way this festive season.
“Naturally we encourage passengers to ensure that they familiarise themselves with the latest Covid rules both here and at their destination.
“We also recognise that many passengers won’t have travelled in some time, so we advise them to check on the rules for hand luggage before travel and leave plenty of time for their journeys.”
The rules which apply every year are:
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If in doubt about any particular items, pack them in your checked hold luggage, rather than in hand luggage
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Ensure products in your hand luggage containing liquids, gels or pastes are in a clear, resealable bag and don’t exceed 100ml each. This includes, among other things, perfume, aftershave, make-up, condiments such as jams and butter, beverages and snow globes
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If you’re planning to carry Christmas crackers, check with your airline in advance as to whether they will be permitted in hand luggage. Some will allow one box per passenger, but most prohibit them
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If flying with a Christmas Pudding, please put this in your hold luggage not your hand luggage
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Do not bring wrapped presents, they may need to be opened for inspection
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If your bag requires a full search, security personnel may need to unwrap your gifts to check their contents. Therefore, wrap presents once you have reached your destination where possible
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Take off coats / jackets and other winter wear before reaching security to help save time
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If you or someone in your party has reduced mobility, book any airline assistance you require in advance to avoid delays
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Poor weather has the potential to disrupt public transport and the road network at this time of year. Ensure you leave plenty of time when planning your journey
