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Transport Wayfinding

Manchester Airport Transport Hub

Manchester Airport’s Transport Hub connects multiple modes of travel including trains, trams, buses, coaches and walking routes into a single gateway for passengers arriving at or departing from the airport. Wayfinder Ltd was commissioned to help unify the communication system, improve clarity at key decision points and ensure passengers could move effortlessly between the hub and all three terminals.

Passengers with luggage pass signs for trains, buses, coaches, car hire and Metrolink at the hub

Challenges:

Multiple transport modes with different operators and signage styles

Passengers arriving under time pressure and unfamiliar with the layout

Confusing routes between the Hub and Terminal 1, 2 and 3

Complex interchange requirements during peak travel times

Need for consistent branding and communication across the entire estate

Ensuring accessibility for users with varied mobility or language needs

Our Approach

We analysed all arrival and departure flows, mapping how passengers transitioned between transport modes and identifying moments of hesitation. Our strategy focused on establishing a single, cohesive wayfinding language that worked for every operator while remaining fully aligned with Manchester Airport’s brand.

Key improvements included:

  • Clearer pedestrian routing between terminals
  • Purposeful consolidation of information to reduce overload
  • Standardised iconography and message hierarchy
  • Improved visibility of onward travel options
  • Logical zoning to help passengers quickly understand orientation

By linking the Transport Hub’s identity into the wider airport system, we created a seamless end-to-end navigation experience.

Travellers with suitcases head towards escalators below an overhead sign for buses, coaches and car hire

Results

Passenger movement between transport services and terminals became more fluid, with fewer delays and less confusion around key routes. The airport saw improved clarity during busy transfer periods, and passengers reported greater confidence when navigating unfamiliar parts of the estate. The unified system strengthened the airport’s overall passenger experience and provided a scalable foundation for future infrastructure upgrades.

More Transport Wayfinding

Every project we deliver is rooted in how people actually think, move, and make decisions. The results speak for themselves! Clearer journeys, fewer questions, reduced stress, and environments that simply work better.

Close-up of yellow on black airport signs for flight transfers, toilets and arrivals

Manchester Airport Terminal 1

Manchester Airport’s Terminal 1 underwent a major £50 million redevelopment to improve passenger flow, enhance commercial performance and prepare the terminal for increased international travel.

Heathrow check-in hall with zone D and E signs and departure screens beneath the curved roof

Heathrow Airport Bus Terminal

Serving millions of passengers between Terminals 1, 2 and 3, We delivered a wayfinding strategy for fast, confident and safe movement.

Merseyrail train at a platform with tactile paving and a yellow safety line under a canopy

Mersey Rail

Merseyrail commissioned Wayfinder Ltd to analyse the entire passenger communication system across 64 stations and assess how effectively the network supported safe, efficient movement.

Let’s Talk Wayfinding

If you have questions about wayfinding, navigation or user experience, get in touch. Complete our short form and we’ll follow up with a friendly, no-pressure conversation.