Manchester Airport's Terminal 2 is currently in lockdown following a police incident during the school half-term holidays, causing significant delays for passengers and long traffic tailbacks on surrounding roads.
Police Incident at Terminal 2
The upper and lower level forecourts of Terminal 2 were closed this afternoon, according to an update from Manchester Airport. The airport advised: 'Due to a police incident, the upper and lower level forecourts of Terminal 2 are currently closed. Those dropping off passengers at Terminal 2 are advised to use the free drop-off area in the JetParks 1 car park until further notice, and to follow the instructions of traffic marshals on site.'
Sources indicate that the incident may involve a concern for welfare, and there is no wider threat to the public. Greater Manchester Police have been approached for comment but have not yet issued a statement.
Traffic Chaos and Passenger Delays
The lockdown has caused severe traffic congestion, with vehicles backed up outside the airport and onto the M56 slip road. Footage shows passengers stepping out of cars and taxis and walking along the roadside to reach the airport in warm temperatures. One passenger described the situation as a 'big incident' with queuing traffic for miles and Terminal 2 closed.
Terminal 3 remains unaffected by the incident, according to the airport. However, some bus services have been disrupted, with the 103 service stopped in nearby Wythenshawe, as reported by passengers. Bus operator High Peak warned that due to the 'gridlock' from the police incident, its 199 services will terminate at Stockport Interchange until further notice.
Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updates and to allow extra time for travel to the airport. The situation is ongoing, and further updates are expected.
