Global Airlines Mark Decades of Service at Manchester Airport Highlighting Strong International Connectivity

(IN SHORT) Manchester Airport is marking a week of major airline anniversaries, including 40 years of Singapore Airlines service, 60 years of SAS Scandinavian Airlines operations and 20 years of Icelandair flights. These milestones highlight the airport’s strong global connectivity and long-standing airline partnerships. The celebrations come alongside new route launches and continued infrastructure investment, reinforcing Manchester’s role as a key aviation hub outside London. Additional anniversaries from major international carriers are also expected in the coming months, underscoring the airport’s continued growth and importance in the UK aviation network.

(PRESS RELEASE) MANCHESTER, 2026-Apr-1 — /Travel PR News/ — Manchester Airport is celebrating a series of major airline milestones, with three long-standing carriers marking significant anniversaries within a single week, highlighting the airport’s strong global connectivity and enduring airline partnerships.

Singapore Airlines marked 40 years of direct service between Manchester and Singapore, maintaining one of the airport’s longest-running long-haul routes. Since launching operations in 1986, the airline has provided consistent connectivity between the North of England and Southeast Asia, now operating five weekly flights. The carrier also made history in 2017 as the first to operate a commercial Airbus A350 service from Manchester. The anniversary was celebrated with special treats for passengers, including themed refreshments and decorations.

At the same time, SAS Scandinavian Airlines commemorated 60 years since its inaugural Manchester to Copenhagen flight in April 1966. Over the decades, SAS has expanded its presence, now offering connections not only to Copenhagen but also to Stockholm and Oslo. With 34 weekly departures from Manchester, the airline has one of its largest UK operations outside London Heathrow. The milestone was marked with a celebratory event at the departure gate.

Looking ahead, Icelandair is set to celebrate 20 years of service between Manchester and Reykjavik. Since launching in 2006, the route has grown from twice-weekly flights to a year-round schedule, with increased frequencies during peak seasons. The airline is also introducing its Airbus A321 aircraft on select flights from this summer. To mark the anniversary, Icelandair is offering promotional discounts on fares booked within a limited period.

These milestones coincide with a busy period for Manchester Airport as it enters the summer travel season and the Easter holiday period, alongside new route developments such as easyJet launching services to Montpellier.

Further anniversaries are also approaching, including milestones for Lufthansa, Air France and Virgin Atlantic, while Etihad Airways recently marked two decades of operations at the airport.

Stephen Turner, Chief Commercial Officer at Manchester Airport, said the anniversaries reflect the strength of long-term airline partnerships and the airport’s role as a key international gateway for northern England. He also highlighted the completion of a £1.3 billion upgrade to Terminal 2, which is expected to enhance passenger experience and support further network growth.

Bogi Nils Bogason emphasized Icelandair’s ongoing commitment to the region and its role in connecting travelers to Iceland and onward destinations across North America. Meanwhile, Mohamed Rafi Mar noted the importance of Manchester as a strategic gateway outside London for the airline’s UK operations.

Press Contacts

Michael Murphy-Pyle
Head of Media
07565 178 364

Alex Nash
Media Lead
07565 178 245

SOURCE: The Manchester Airports Group plc.