The first major phase of the £1 billion transformation of Manchester Airport has been completed, as the project marks the six-month milestone.

Stunning footage showing how the building work has progressed since the launch of the scheme was released to mark the milestone – see above.

Manchester Airport chief executive, Andrew Cowan, said: “Today is one of the major milestones for our £1 billion transformation programme, which is gathering pace at a rapid rate.

“Through the delivery of the transformation we will have a world class airport the whole of the north can be proud of, and one that will attract new airlines and routes so that we can continue to play economic provider by linking the north to key investment and trade opportunities across the globe.”

After being officially launched by the secretary of state for transport, Chris Grayling, last year, the transformation quickly delivered a new gate lounge which seats 650 people and has been used by airlines including Virgin Atlantic and TUI.

With the demolition works now largely complete and foundations laid, focus is now shifting to the construction of the new terminal two extension and multi storey car park, with four tower cranes erected to aid the process, and two more to be installed before the end of March, creating a dramatic skyline to the construction site.