Economy passengers can expect first-class treatment at Aether, Manchester Airport's new private terminal that offers a BMW chauffeur service and fine dining from a legendary local chef. Olivia Palamountain reports

A new private terminal called Aether has opened at Manchester Airport, marking a first for the UK aviation industry.

The facility allows any passenger flying from Manchester to bypass the main terminal and access private check-in, security and dining facilities previously reserved for premium-class travellers.

Aether opened on November 4, 2024 as part of Manchester's wider recognition as an emerging global city, recently named among The New York Times' "52 Places to Go in 2024".

Starting from £90 per person, passengers can now experience private terminal access regardless of their ticket class or airline, with services including chauffeur-driven transport to aircraft in luxury BMW vehicles, including the all-electric i7, seven-seater X7, and the latest BMW XM.

The terminal has partnered with acclaimed Manchester chef Adam Reid of Adam Reid at The French to create its dining experience, offering a curated menu designed for pre-flight dining.Located in a self-contained space away from the main terminal building, aether offers two main packages. The "Express" service allows passengers with cabin bags to move directly through the private terminal to their gate, while the 'Inclusive' package provides full access to all facilities, including food and drinks, for both departing and arriving passengers.Guests can also bring along non-travelling guests to enjoy the aether experience and wave them off before their flight, which is subject to availability and at an additional cost.

Suzanne Orr, general manager of aether, says: "Our Private Terminal is a sanctuary, offering a thoughtfully designed, elevated experience away from the hustle and bustle of what you'd usually expect in an airport. What sets aether apart is its inclusivity; it's accessible to all passengers, regardless of ticket class, and doesn't require membership."The launch comes as Manchester Airport reports record passenger numbers over the past six months, now serving more than 200 destinations – the highest number outside London. The airport has also seen a significant increase in premium experience bookings, with its Escape Lounges and 1903 Lounges experiencing two-thirds growth in recent years.

Manchester Airport managing director Chris Woodroofe says: "We want people to feel like their holidays start at the airport – not only when they reach their destination. That's why we're really excited by the launch of aether."

The terminal operates seven days a week with limited capacity to maintain service levels. Passengers flying with partner airlines including Emirates, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic can check in hold luggage through the facility. Non-travelling guests can also access the terminal to see off passengers, subject to availability and additional costs.