Airport revamp sees 74% rise in passenger seating

The changes mean a 74% increase in airside seating at the terminal

A refurbishment to the Isle of Man Airport departures lounge will make sure "people do not end up sitting on the floor" during busy periods, the infrastructure minister has said.

The six-month project, which was completed last week, saw the airport terminal transformed to include 282 seats, representing a 74% increase in seating.

The work, which took place at night time to minimise disruption, also included more charging points, accessible tables and seating.

Michelle Haywood said the overhaul was needed as the old layout was "not fit for purpose" and people had previously "ended up sitting on the floor or perching on the window" when flights were delayed.

Accessible seating near the gate is included in the revamp

Haywood said there had been a scheduling challenge, as there were "lots of big flights going out at the same time", and the refurbishment aimed to ensure there was "somewhere to sit" for all passengers.

Although the aim of airport staff was to "get passengers out as quickly as you can, "it was important to have somewhere which was easy to navigate through, comfortable as well as a warm and welcoming atmosphere", she said.

She also confirmed that the installation of two new scanners in security had also been completed, which meant the airport was "now compliant with the health and safety regulations that we need to operate under".