Go Behind the Scenes with Manchester Airport Inside Out

If you’ve ever stood at the fence line, gazed out of a terminal window, or spent hours photographing movements at one of the UK’s busiest airports, Manchester Airport needs little introduction. But how well do you really know what goes on beyond the public areas?

A newly released book, Manchester Airport Inside Out, by well-known aviation author (and AirportSpotting contributor) Martyn Cartledge, lifts the lid on the country’s third-busiest airport and explores its story, operations, and people in impressive depth.

More Than Just an Airport History Book

While the book does chart the growth of Manchester Airport from its early beginnings to its role as a true global aviation hub, this is far more than a traditional timeline of events.

Manchester Airport Inside Out blends history with insight, helping readers understand how a modern airport actually works. From passenger journeys through the terminals to the complex choreography of aircraft movements on the ground, the book explains what you’re seeing — and why it’s happening — when you’re watching from the terminal windows or spotting locations.

Inside the Departments That Keep MAN Moving

One of the book’s real strengths is its behind-the-scenes access. Aviation enthusiasts will especially enjoy detailed sections covering:

• Air Traffic Control – including life inside the tower and how aircraft are managed safely and efficiently

• Airport Operations – the teams coordinating day-to-day movements across the airfield

• Fire & Rescue Service – a fascinating look at one of the airport’s most vital departments

• Ground infrastructure and equipment – decoding the signs, vehicles, and hardware scattered across the apron

These chapters help turn everyday spotting moments into informed observations, making your next visit to Manchester Airport even more rewarding, and are especially interesting to those curious about how airports work.

A Visual Treat for Aviation Enthusiasts

As Airport Spotting readers would expect, photography plays a huge role in this book. It’s highly illustrated throughout, combining:

• Stunning modern colour photography from around the airport

• Atmospheric historical images showing key moments and aircraft from the past

• Department-focused imagery that brings the operational side of the airport to life

• A look back at classic aircraft movements at Manchester, including football charters and the infamous Diversion Days

Whether you’re interested in rare visitors, changing liveries, or simply the evolving look of the airport over time, there’s plenty here to enjoy.

Who Is This Book For?

This is a title that works on several levels:

• Plane spotters and aviation photographers wanting deeper insight into what they’re watching, including a guide to spotting locations

• Manchester Airport regulars curious about the hidden world behind the scenes

• Aviation enthusiasts interested in airport operations, infrastructure, and history

• Casual readers and travellers who want to better understand how large airports function

If Manchester Airport has ever featured in your logs, photo collections, or travel memories, this book will resonate.

Add Manchester Airport Inside Out to Your Collection

Few airports in the UK have evolved as dramatically or handle such a diverse mix of traffic as Manchester. Manchester Airport Inside Out captures that story beautifully — combining operational insight, engaging history, and outstanding photography into one accessible and informative book.

👉 Out now, and available from the FlyWinglets shop. Order at this link to receive a signed copy