Manchester Airports Group Reports Record Growth With 64 Million Passengers Handled

Manchester Airports Group (MAG) has achieved a milestone year, processing more than 64 million passengers across its three airports whilst delivering substantial profit growth. The group’s financial performance showed remarkable strength, with revenues reaching £1.3 billion, marking an 8 per cent increase, whilst earnings before interest, tax and other deductions surged 12 per cent to £570 million.

Manchester Airport, the group’s flagship operation, celebrated a historic achievement by exceeding 30 million passengers for the first time, handling 31.1 million travellers. Stansted Airport maintained its position as London’s third-busiest airport with 29.1 million passengers, whilst East Midlands Airport, primarily known for freight operations, served 4 million passengers.

MAG’s chief executive, Ken O’Toole, emphasised the group’s role in regional development, stating, “Our airports are engines of growth for the regions they serve.” The group’s position as the UK’s largest private transport infrastructure investor outside London reinforces its commitment to fostering regional prosperity and enabling trade.

Manchester Airport’s ambitious expansion plans have faced challenges, particularly following the cancellation of HS2’s northern extension beyond Birmingham. Despite this setback, the airport is in the final stages of a decade-long transformation programme, targeting an annual capacity of 50 million passengers.

The group’s strategic developments include Stansted Airport’s £1.1 billion five-year investment programme, aimed at increasing capacity to 43 million passengers annually. The Essex-based airport, dominated by Ryanair operations, is seeking local council approval for further expansion to accommodate 51 million passengers.

A significant boost to Manchester’s international connectivity was announced with IndiGo’s planned launch of services to Mumbai, marking the Indian carrier’s first venture into European markets. This development comes as the aviation sector witnesses shifting dynamics in the Indo-British air corridor.