Multi million pound investment to be made in Edinburgh Airport

After months of speculation about a reorganisation of Edinburgh Airport the announcement has been made of a major expansion to the terminal with a new access road.

In a huge £500 million scheme the owners VINCI Airports will expand the terminal, redesign the airport infrastructure, passenger facilities and operations areas in the next five years.

There will be new stands for aircraft to cope with increases to the number of flights, with new flights on long haul and short haul routes. There are plans for an expanded check in hall, arrival facilities, baggage reclaim area and departure lounge, and new areas for food and drink. In all the airport footprint will increase by 60%.

During a visit to the airport on Monday morning, the First Minister, John Swinney, was told of the plans to improve “Scotland’s busiest airport”.

First Minister John 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.”

A spokesperson for Edinburgh Airport’s owners, VINCI Airports and GIP said: “This £500 million investment underscores our confidence in the airport’s growth prospects and our long-term commitment to supporting its development. It will enable us to increase its capacity while delivering an ever higher quality experience for passengers, thereby consolidating Edinburgh’s role as Scotland’s leading international gateway.”

Nick Rowan, Managing Director of Balfour Beatty’s business in Scotland, said: “As Scotland’s busiest airport, Edinburgh Airport plays a vital role in supporting the country’s economy, international connectivity and future growth, and we are proud to be helping deliver the infrastructure needed for its next chapter.

“Operating within highly regulated live airport environments requires specialist expertise, and our teams’ capability has enabled us to safely deliver complex infrastructure projects while maintaining operational continuity and minimising disruption for airport users.”

Full details of the plans to improve the airport are here.