The number of passengers using Manchester Airport has risen to 21 million for the first time in six years.

Passenger numbers dipped during the economic downturn but the airport, which is used by more than 65 airlines, has recovered faster than expected. 

According to Travel Weekly, it is just 18 months away from returning to a record annual high of 22 million passengers set in 2006.

The addition of new routes has helped to boost the airport's performance, with new destinations including Charlotte in North Carolina, Vienna and Jeddah. A Cathay Pacific service to Hong Kong is planned for December.

Manchester Airports Group (MAG) chief commercial officer Ken O'Toole said: "We continue to grow thanks to the strength of our catchment, the support of our airline partners and the continued hard work and dedication of all MAG colleagues."

Some 9.3 million passengers are expected to use Manchester Airport over the summer period.