Manchester Airport is facing mounting frustration from the taxi and private hire community, with drivers repeatedly contacting DM News and Driver Matty to highlight ongoing delays when picking up and dropping off passengers.
Drivers report that journeys into the region are often smooth, with motorways and surrounding roads flowing normally. However, problems begin the moment vehicles enter the airport grounds at Manchester Airport.
Congestion Focused Around Terminal 2
According to drivers, the worst delays are occurring around Terminal 2, particularly:
- Long queues on the slip road leading up to the T2 roundabout
- Heavy congestion coming in via Runger Lane and the “back way”
- Gridlock around terminal drop-off and pick-up zones
Many drivers say the congestion feels unpredictable. Some trips allow them to get in and out quickly, while others result in lengthy queues with no clear reason. Several drivers believe this inconsistency is linked to flight schedules, with peaks caused by clusters of arrivals and departures.
Building Works and Terminal Changes Adding Pressure
Drivers also point to ongoing building works and terminal changes as a major contributing factor. With more flights and airlines now operating through Terminal 2, traffic volumes in the surrounding areas have increased significantly.
Private hire and airport transfer drivers say the infrastructure does not appear to be coping with the current demand, let alone what is expected during peak periods.
DM News Commentary
From a taxi and airport transfer perspective, this situation is becoming unsustainable. When drivers can reach the airport smoothly but then sit in traffic once inside the perimeter, it highlights a serious internal traffic management issue.
The unpredictability is one of the biggest problems. Drivers cannot plan turnaround times, passengers become frustrated, and missed pickups or delays quickly lead to complaints. As always, the knock-on effect is financial — time stuck in queues is time not earning.
With the summer holidays approaching, many drivers are genuinely worried. Passenger numbers will rise, families will travel with more luggage, and peak-time congestion will only intensify unless changes are made. Without improvements to traffic flow, staging areas, or clearer separation between drop-offs, pickups, and through traffic, the pressure on drivers and passengers alike will only grow.
Thanks for visiting DM News! If you’ve got a question, a story tip, or anything you’d like to share, head over to DriverMatty.com — I’d love to hear from you.
While you’re there, don’t forget to check out my other websites and social media channels.
