Manchester Airport reaches 21m passengers for first time in six years
Since 27th May 2013, 21m passengers have used the airport, which is the global gateway to the North of England, by using a range of international destinations that include Singapore, Las Vegas, Washington DC, New York, Paris and Moscow, with new destinations for 2014 including Charlotte in North Carolina, Vienna and Jeddah.
The 21 millionth passenger was Singapore Airlines’ customer Dr Rachel Brown from Warrington, who received a wealth of prizes when she arrived for her flight to Asia this morning. On the accolade she said: “I am absolutely delighted to be Manchester Airport’s 21 millionth passenger and what an incredible start to my trip with Singapore Airlines. The airline would always be my first choice for either leisure or business travel.”
Above: A Singapore Airlines cabin crew member welcomes Dr Rachel Brown on board in Business Class.
Dr Brown was treated to an array of rewards, including an upgrade to business class, 21,000 bonus KrisFlyer miles, Escape Lounge access within an exclusively sectioned off area, the privilege of being first to board, a crew-led aircraft tour, plus an on board celebration cake and Manchester Airport fast track passes.
Singapore Airlines is the longest serving international long-haul carrier at Manchester Airport having been continuously flying since 1st April 1986. Martin Friend, Sales Manager UK North, Singapore Airlines, commented: “For 28 years, Singapore Airlines has been the perfect choice connecting the Northwest region to destinations throughout Asia, the Far East, Australia and New Zealand. With such a history, it’s a great honour for one of our customers to now become Manchester Airport’s 21 millionth passenger and we hope Dr Brown enjoys her flight with us today – particularly our multi award-winning business class experience and in-flight service.”
Passenger numbers have been increasing at Manchester Airport over the last few years with the airport hitting 20m last year for the first time in five years. Additionally the airport has a strong selection of new routes this year, to cater for the 24m plus people in its catchment area.
Ken O’Toole, Chief Commercial Officer of Manchester Airports Group (MAG), said: “Manchester airport is the Northern Gateway, providing global connectivity through our unrivalled network of short and long haul destinations. We continue to grow thanks to the strength of our catchment, the support of our airline partners and the continued hard work and dedication of all MAG colleagues. With more than 65 airlines and 200 routes from Manchester there is huge choice for passengers, whether flying on business or pleasure. Having served Manchester for more than 28 successful years it's great that our 21st millionth passenger this year is flying with Singapore Airlines to the Far East. I'm sure Dr Brown will thoroughly enjoy our retail and lounge experience before travelling in luxury on Singapore Airlines’ magnificent B777-300ER aircraft.”
The recent accolade also sees the start of a busy summer season at Manchester Airport begin, with over 9.3m passengers set to use the airport over the coming months.
