Greater Manchester Police have fully reopened the M56 in both directions following a fatal collision near Manchester Airport. The incident triggered a major 12-hour closure and widespread travel disruption across the region.
The tragic incident occurred on the evening of October 17, 2026. It shut down a critical stretch of the motorway between junction 2 at Sharston and junction 5 serving Manchester Airport. Emergency services rushed to the scene immediately following reports of the crash, prompting an extensive police investigation.
Major Travel Disruption Across Greater Manchester
According to National Highways, the motorway remained completely shut down for more than half a day. During this time, collision investigators gathered evidence at the scene. The prolonged closure severely impacted holidaymakers heading to Manchester Airport and daily commuters navigating Greater Manchester.
Heavy congestion quickly built up along both the M56 and the nearby M60. Traffic officers diverted vehicles onto local roads. Motorists caught directly within the closure zone faced severe delays. Some drivers reported being held stationary for more than 90 minutes before authorities safely released vehicles from the rear of the queues.
Emergency Response and Investigation
Greater Manchester Police and the North West Ambulance Service spearheaded the emergency response. They worked alongside National Highways traffic officers who managed the gridlocked diversion routes and coordinated the phased release of trapped vehicles.
Authorities have lifted the road closures now that the initial investigative work and recovery operations are complete. However, residual delays are expected to clear gradually as normal traffic flow resumes around the airport corridor.
Wider Traffic Impact and Advice
Transport officials continue to advise travelers heading toward Manchester Airport to check their routes. They urge drivers to allow extra time for journeys while the network fully recovers from the 12-hour shutdown. Further updates regarding the collision are expected from Greater Manchester Police as their inquiries progress.
