There were some raised eyebrows when passengers voted Manchester the world's favourite airport, but there were good reasons for its popularity.

It has easy access by road, its international long haul terminal, Terminal 2, is a building many airports would die for and facilities are well designed to satisfy both leisure and business users.

Friendly staff help to overcome the impersonality that often bedevils international airports and it manages to generate a relaxed atmosphere.

Manchester is in expansionist mood. British Airways now has its own terminal, Terminal 3, another office block has been completed and a luxury hotel, connected to the Terminals, has been opened. There have also been changes to shops and restaurant facilities.

After a long legal battle work is almost complete on a second runway which will help boost traffic and further the airport's ambitions of becoming the Heathrow of the North. If it can maintain its level of service and friendly attitude among this welter of activity it will retain the respect of those who voted for it and the gratitude of everyone.

After so many bouquets does Manchester have any glaring faults? Well, any passenger looking for a shower during a stopover will be disappointed as there are none available in the terminals. For an airport with international ambitions that is a small but important detail someone has overlooked.