At aether, the airport journey has been reimagined to deliver an experience that is uncomplicated, effortless and enjoyable. This is particularly true of our unique chauffeur-driven service, which takes you seamlessly from the aether building to your departure gate, or back again for your return journey, in a luxury BMW. Here we outline each step of our exclusive transfer offering, from the vehicles to the drivers and the journey itself.

Our fleet of luxury BMW vehicles

To ensure a seamless transition from aether to your designated gate at Manchester Airport, we have partnered with luxury vehicle brand BMW Group. We have a fleet of four BMWs, complete with aether livery, in a variety of top models, including the all-electric BMW i7, the seven-seater BMW X7 and the latest luxury performance BMW XM. The elegant interiors mean you can continue to relax and unwind even after you’ve left the aether building.

Our chauffeurs are fully trained to provide a seamless experience

All our chauffeurs undergo rigorous training to familiarise themselves with the vehicles, the routes, the gates, and the drop off / pick up locations for guests. This is to ensure they can accurately and safely navigate the labyrinth of roads connecting the airport terminals and gates, getting you to your departure point as quickly and effortlessly as possible when it’s time to board your flight.  

Leaving aether is not the end of your effortless experience

Once you’ve cleared the private security channel, your aether Host will escort you outside through a set of double doors, where your private BMW transfer and driver will be waiting for you, just a few steps away. The canopy area means that even if the infamous Manchester rain is pouring, you’ll stay perfectly dry.

Your driver will ensure that any cabin baggage is safely stowed in your vehicle’s boot and that you are seated comfortably, before taking you on your journey between the Private Terminal and your gate.

A unique first-hand view of the airfield

The short drive from aether to your gate is an exclusive experience that gives you an unparalleled behind the scenes look at airport operations. You pass under the shadow of the Manchester Airport Control Tower, and past the many planes being loaded with luggage and fuel, with some even taxiing to or from the runway alongside your vehicle.

Don’t be surprised to find the wing of a Saudia Dreamliner passing overhead. If you’re lucky, you might even get a close-up view of the impressive Emirates A380, the world’s biggest commercial aeroplane.  

Our drivers are full of interesting anecdotes about airport operations and will happily answer any questions you might have. If you’d rather marvel at the view uninterrupted, you’ll be left to make the journey in peace, with only the background murmur of ground traffic control on your driver’s radio to accompany the sights. This is your journey to make how you wish.

A personal escort from your vehicle to your gate

Once you reach the entrance to your gate, your driver will park right by the doors, before escorting you into the terminal building and taking you straight to your departure gate. There, gate agents will carry out the legal checks necessary to manage the boarding process, including checking your boarding pass and verifying your ID, before you can board your plane and make your onward journey.

If you’ve reserved the aether experience for your arrival into Manchester Airport, this journey is taken in reverse. You’ll be met from your plane by your chauffer and driven to aether, where you’ll go through our private passport control channel before enjoying the exclusive amenities the Private Terminal has to offer.

The reviews speak for themselves

Our chauffeur-driven transfer clearly leaves a lasting impression on aether guests. Many customers reviewing the experience mention this element of the service and how seamlessly it is delivered. In her review of aether, Cathy Adams, Senior Commissioning Editor for The Times, wrote that being chauffeured across the airfield to her gate in a private BMW made her feel “like a million dollars”. 

Many of our 5-star guest reviews also mention the seamless chauffeur service. Graham said: “the (private vehicle) transfer over to aircraft was an experience in itself - heated massage seats ensured we were in no rush to travel across the tarmac”, while Phill enthused: “A special shout out to Miguel who drove us in a very luxurious BMW to the terminal, it was a mini tour of the airport with great information and possibly the best part.”

Tim wrapped up his 5-star review with: “The BMW that sped me to the plane was icing on a rather glorious cake,” while James remarked: “Going through private security and being driven to the plane in a private car was both exciting and fascinating.” 

To experience the Private Terminal and the chauffeur-driven journey to your gate for yourself, reserve aether for your next trip out of Manchester Airport