Together with lead contractor Mace, the airport has started work on the construction of a new pier, which will connect to Terminal 2.
  
More than 500 jobs are being created during the construction phase of the project – which is forecast to generate up to 16,400 jobs by 2040, according to independent analysis.
 
The new pier will mirror Terminal 2’s Pier 1, which opened in 2019, and will provide 12 new boarding gates and flexible aircraft stands for next-generation aircraft. It will also be equipped to handle the Airbus A380, the largest passenger aircraft currently in operation.
 
The first phase saw Terminal 2 more than double in size, while the second phase will see the original building upgraded with a second security hall and a new-look, extended departure lounge, along with reconfigurations of the airfield to make operations more efficient.
 
Upon completion in 2025, around 80% of all passengers will use the expanded Terminal 2, which will also feature 27 new shops, bars and restaurants, including a high-street style shopping area, a champagne bar and a food hall.

MAG deputy chief executive Ken O’Toole said: "We are pleased to be beginning work on what is a major milestone in our transformation of Manchester airport.
 
"Our £1.3bn transformation programme is the largest investment ever made in Manchester Airport, and will create thousands of jobs, revolutionise the customer experience and ensure we connect the North to even more global destinations in the years ahead."