Overview

1A is an exceptionally busy part of the airport and a far cry from the luster of Terminal 2. It has everything you might expect from an airport, though the toilet facilities are a bit lacking.

Transport & Parking

The terminal is served by Manchester Airport Station, which provides bus, rail, and tram links to the airport. There are also dedicated long and short stay car parks at the airport in addition to valet parking and drop-off zones.

Access

As I arrived by train, it was a bit of a journey to Terminal 1A. I first took the lift from the platform, trekked along the Skybridge, and then took the left to level 5 to access the dated-looking terminal. This took some time due to the masses of passengers rushing to the terminal. In both instances, lifts had handrails around the perimeter but lacked braille buttons and hearing loops. Through a set of sliding automatic doors, I entered the terminal. The Special Assistance area is located directly across from Check-in Desk 1, and the gathering crowds made it difficult to access. From what I could see, there was plenty of seating inside, where passengers were awaiting assistance. Terminal 1 felt a lot busier than Terminal 2, but this is mostly because of its small size in comparison to the sheer number of people heading off on holiday.

Toilets

The accessible toilet is located close to Check-In Desk 69. It shows signs of wear and wasn't the most pleasant or modern toilet to visit. The toilet is quite small but could accommodate a second person if needed. The toilet is located on the rear wall, which contrasts with the rest of the room. There is space for a left-side transfer; however, there was both a wet floor sign and a bin in the transfer space. There are contrasting grab rails on either side of the toilet and the low, small sink. The toilet doesn't require a RADAR key and is locked from the inside by turning the lock. Having visited the toilets in Terminal 2, which are exceptionally spacious and even have a privacy curtain, I found it hard to believe I was in the same airport. There's clearly a lot of investment in the airport, it'll be nice when it reaches Terminal 1. The red emergency cord hung to the floor - which we love to se

Staff

I didn't speak to anyone on my visit.

Photos