Manchester Airport has been absolutely rammed this week as crowds of people set off to festive holiday destinations – tens of thousands are expected to filter through every day
Christmas chaos has struck UK airports as new pictures show departure lounges fit to burst and struggling under waves of Brits embarking on the great festive getaway.
Photographers have captured the national mass exodus as people look to spend the festive season abroad, with most departing in the few days before December 25. Pictures this week show people crowded at departure boards and queueing at airline bag drop desks at Manchester Airport, one of the busiest in the country.
The floor can barely be seen under the sea of people looking to catch a Christmas flight, with adults and children listlessly waiting in the terminals. Retractable belt barriers wrapped around bag check stations are also crammed and overflowing, likely leaving many passengers in a panic as they struggle to reach their gates in time.
The pictures follow a warning from Manchester Airport to the approximately 70,000 to 90,000 passengers who are expected to travel through it to festive holiday destinations each day. The airport had earlier issued advice for people travelling through its terminals ahead of Christmas, warning people to prepare ahead of time and arrive several hours early to ensure they don’t miss their trips.
In a post on X, the airport said: “Arrive at the earliest time specified by your airline. Usually two hours before your flight but always check with your airline.
“Make sure all liquids and gels, including hand sanitisers are 100ml or less. Place them flat in a clear, sealable bag before arriving at security. Make sure to remove all large electrical items from your hand luggage. Place them flat in their own tray for screening.” The airport followed its advice with a plea for Brits not to take wrapped presents, stating they are not allowed in hand luggage.
The airport continued: “Unfortunately wrapped presents, as well as crackers and snow globes, are not allowed in hand luggage. Please place them in your hold luggage.”
