Gen Z travellers turn Manchester Airport into a runway for their pre-flight photos and outfits

A new survey from Manchester Airport (MAN) reveals that Gen Z travellers are leading a trend of treating the terminal as a style destination. Nearly half (47%) of Gen Z respondents plan a dedicated ‘airport outfit’, and one in three (33%) take photos or selfies upon arrival, using the airport as a backdrop for social media content.

The research also highlights how airports signal the start of a holiday. The average traveller mentally switches into ‘holiday mode’ 50 minutes before arriving at the terminal, with over half (53%) feeling this shift before even stepping inside. Once there, specific rituals build excitement. Browsing World Duty Free is the UK's top pre-flight tradition (41%), followed by buying a coffee or a pre-flight drink (40%) and shopping for last-minute travel essentials (26%). Other popular rituals include taking photos (25%) and wearing a special airport outfit (21%).

Jennifer Byrne-Smith, Director of Customer Operations at Manchester Airport, said: “This survey confirms what we’ve long recognised, people love to get their holiday started at the airport, whether it’s indulging in a pre-flight meal, picking up a luxury item at World Duty Free or simply taking in the airfield views and enjoying the atmosphere.

“That’s why we’ve committed to a significant investment worth £1bn in enhancing the passenger experience across our terminals, from upgraded dining and retail options to more comfortable and efficient spaces, ensuring every journey starts on a high.”

The findings underscore the airport's role in building anticipation for a trip. With travellers viewing the terminal as an integral part of their getaway, Manchester Airport is investing to ensure it provides a world-class experience from the very beginning of the journey.

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