Why is £500m being invested in Edinburgh Airport over the next five years?

Edinburgh Airport has unveiled plans for more than £500m of investment over the next five years.

The multi-year programme is aiming to deliver “significant improvements across terminal expansion, airport infrastructure, passenger facilities and operations”.

This includes new gates and aircraft stands, an expanded check-in hall and departure lounge, and new food and retail options for passengers.

First Minister John Swinney visited the airport’s South East Pier expansion site with CEO Gordon Dewar on Monday.

Scotland

Flight disruption to continue across Scotland after air traffic control issue

A number of flights have been disrupted at Glasgow and Edinburgh Airport, with delays of more than an hour reported

It came as an air traffic control issue caused delays throughout Monday for passengers across Scotland, including at the country’s largest airport.

Flights were cancelled and delayed as the National Air Traffic Services (Nats) reported an issue at the Prestwick Centre, affecting Scotland’s air traffic control.

Mr Dewar told STV News it will take “all of Monday if not into Tuesday” to get flights back on track.

The first phase of development, part of the airport’s £500m investment programme, is due to fully open in summer 2027.

The investment will also support new long-haul and short-haul routes.

Swinney said: “This significant investment will enable Edinburgh Airport to compete with airports around the world. Alongside delivering real benefits to passengers, this boost will support Scotland’s international connections and help drive economic growth.

“Scotland is open for business and we want to maintain and strengthen Scotland’s position as the most attractive place in the UK for inward investment outside of London and the South East. Opportunities like this airport expansion will help make that happen.”

Gordon Dewar, chief executive of Edinburgh Airport, said: “This is the biggest investment in Edinburgh Airport’s history and comes at one of the most exciting points in its development, adding another important chapter to its story.

“Our growth has cemented our position as Scotland’s busiest and best-connected airport, and we know the important role we play in supporting economic growth in Scotland and the UK. This investment will strengthen our international competitiveness by growing Scotland’s connectivity.

“This is the first phase of a multi-year plan that ensures we are building for Our Future, creating the capacity, capability and customer experience we need and want. It’s part of a wider vision that will see us invest in infrastructure, operations and sustainability, ensuring Edinburgh Airport continues to deliver for passengers, airlines, communities and the Scottish economy for decades to come.”