Manchester Airport says Terminal 3’s departure lounge will expand by over one third, with completion planned for 2028. Here is what is proposed, what has already opened and which details remain outstanding.
More space planned before departure
The Manchester Airport Terminal 3 expansion would enlarge the departure lounge by over one third, adding approximately 2,000 square metres. Announced by the airport on 23 October 2026, the project includes more seating, natural light and retail space, with completion planned for 2028.
Manchester Airport says the project has approval and that a competitive tender for new retailers will follow. Further details of the tender are still to follow.
What the departure lounge expansion covers
Manchester Airport Terminal 3 expansion: the proposed space
According to the airport’s expansion announcement, the departure lounge would gain approximately 2,000 square metres, with more seating, natural light and retail space.
The airport describes the investment as multimillion-pound, without publishing an exact budget.
What retailers should watch for
Terminal 3 retail tender
The airport identifies a competitive tender for new retailers as a next step. In its announcement of 23 October 2026, it says further details of the process will follow.
What the plans mean for Greater Manchester readers
The Terminal 3 departure lounge plans concern residents and business travellers who use the terminal. As at 23 October 2026, the airport says Terminal 3 exclusively serves its Ryanair passengers.
The Manchester Airport Terminal 3 expansion is also separate from improvements already reported complete. In its 18 March 2026 update on Terminal 3 facilities, the airport reported that Sporting Chance and a new terminal area had opened. That update also described a replacement entrance and security hall as already open.
The 2028 timetable and questions still unanswered
The airport’s 23 October announcement sets 2028 as the planned completion year. Further retail tender details are still to follow.