Manchester Airport Security Information

As we know, enhanced security measures mean that checking in can take longer than it used to. It is advised that you arrive at the airport in plenty of time:

Arrive at the airport at least 1.5 hours before a Domestic flight

Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a European flight

Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before an International flight

Want to speed up the process? Opt for Manchester Airport security fast track!

This service is available to all travellers for the small cost of £6 per person when booked in advance. It offers rapid routing through security clearance and leads you through to the Departure lounge. We suggest that FastTrack isn’t suitable for those travelling with transport accessories for children.

Please also note that FastTrack is not available at the Ground Floor security area in Terminal 1. If you are a Jet2 passenger checking in at Ground Level and want to use the FastTrack service, please make your way upstairs to Main Check-In and follow signs for Departures where the FastTrack lane is located.

Manchester Airport Hand Luggage – What you can and can’t pack

The ‘strictly one item of hand baggage per passenger’ rule has now been lifted at Manchester Airport. However, each airline has its own policy regarding the amount of hand baggage they allow on board of their planes so please remember to check with your airline before travelling.

Below we have answered some of the more common questions about hand luggage allowances, including what not to pack, to stop you getting caught out at security!

Manchester Airport security - sharp objects

Manchester Airport security - Sports

Manchester Airport security - medicines

Manchester Airport security - liquids

Manchester Airport Security – additional things to note:

Manchester Liquid Allowance:

Essential medicines in liquid form sufficient and essential for the flight (e.g. diabetic kit), as long as it is verified as authentic.
Baby milk and liquid baby food (the contents of each bottle or jar must be tasted by the accompanying passenger).

Please note: Other bags, such as handbags, may be carried within the single item of cabin baggage. However, depending on the airline, it may be required to be placed within your hand luggage when boarding the plane.

Screening

All items carried by passengers will be x-ray screened, including.

Pushchairs, walking aids and wheelchairs.
Laptops and other large electrical items (e.g. a large hairdryer) have to be removed from cabin baggage and screened separately. (A laptop bag will be regarded as your one item that is allowed in the cabin)

Before Security

All shops and catering outlets are open to all passengers. Hand baggage is now allowed BUT any liquids and gels must be packed into your hold luggage for check-in. Any other purchases must fit into your hand baggage.

After Security

All shops and catering outlets are open to all passengers. Passengers can take all items purchased in the departures lounge into the aircraft cabin, unless you are travelling to the USA. For more information, please visit www.tsa.gov.

Duty-free/departure lounge purchases

You may take onboard liquid items of any size that are purchased after the security check in the Departure lounge. Remember to retain your proof of purchase throughout your journey as you will be required to show it at all transfer points if applicable.

Manchester Airport Security – Prohibited Items

In addition to the restrictions on what is allowed in hand luggage, there are a number of items that must not be taken on board an aircraft, either as hand luggage or in the hold. Please do not pack the following anywhere in your carry on or check-in luggage:

Flammable liquids and solids	Oxidisers
Organic peroxides	Gas cylinders
Infectious substances	Wet car cell batteries
Instruments containing magnets	Instruments containing mercury
Magnetrons	Fireworks
Non-safety matches, firelighters, lighter fuel	Paints, thinners
Poisons, arsenic, cyanide, weedkiller	Acids, corrosives, alkalis, caustic soda
Creosote, quicklime, oiled paper	Radioactive materials