Excitement is building as we approach the grand opening of aether this November. On July 10, local press were treated to an exclusive first look at the space, experiencing the unique elements that will soon redefine the airport experience. 

Taking place amidst the 2024 UEFA European Football Championship, many in attendance highlighted the role that a Private Terminal could play in offering VIP travel for events such as this. In much the same way, many were excited to see how aether democratised premium services, delivering a truly effortless travel experience for all.  

Read on to hear more of what our press attendees had to say.  

Your effortless airport experience 

Harley Young at Confidentials Liverpool said that aether “will elevate the terminal experience, offering luxury that is often only reserved for first and business class travellers, but is now open to all passengers who journey from Manchester Airport.” The article mentioned the terminal’s panoramic runway views, menu curated by Adam Reid and partnership with BMW, before concluding that aether “takes the stress out of going on holiday and means you can start your celebrations or break ahead of your flight.”

Reimagining the airport process 

Sofia Fedeczko at Manchester World called aether “a luxury private terminal fit for celebs and football stars”, and focused on the fact that aether is designed to remove “all the stress associated with air travel.” Like the other coverage, the article discussed aether’s partnerships with BMW and Adam Reid, as well as the runway views, but also mentioned how the terminal’s layout can be altered to accommodate larger parties or divided for privacy when smaller groups are travelling. 

Although the exclusive event was hosted for local press, it was also covered by The Mail Online, which calls aether “a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the main airport,” commenting on the “impressive floor-to-ceiling windows offering incredible views across the airfield and the distant countryside beyond.” As well as calling out aether’s food and transfer partnerships, The Mail focused on the private terminal’s suitability for footballers and their families travelling for international tournaments. 

A “tranquil sanctuary”  

Liv Clarke at the Manchester Evening News (MEN) called aether “a tranquil sanctuary.” She commented: “In one way aether is similar to other luxury lounges you can book at Manchester Airport, but what sets it apart is that staff are on hand to care for passengers throughout and provide a personal experience.” The MEN’s coverage also focused on the fact that the terminal can be configured depending on the needs of those travelling, from family groups to ‘V-VIPs’. 

An experience for everyone 

Ben Clarke at Manchester's Finest emphasised the lounge’s inclusivity and the way it democratises the private lounge experience: “The difference is that you can be flying on the most budget of budget airlines, or the most bargainous ticket there is, and still get some of that luxury before you fly and after you land.” He also comments that, before aether, such an experience could cost thousands of pounds. The article emphasises the terminal’s seamless experience, which makes queuing a thing of the past. 

Referencing aether’s previous incarnation as PremiAir, Rob Burgess at Head for Points said, “I have to say that it was lovely to be back in Manchester’s private terminal”. He focused on the privacy that aether affords, highlighting that passengers won’t have to share their car to the aircraft, passport control or security with anyone not in their travelling party. He also mentioned aether’s suitability for those travelling with children, with highchairs, car seats and child-friendly food readily available.

Further announcements to come

Media excitement about aether opening will continue to build over the coming months as we announce further details about the Private Terminal and the partnerships we’re forming to deliver a seamless airport experience.

Look out for further announcements, and reserve your aether experience now for travel after November 4.