17.2.2009

Edinburgh airport 'to be one of Europe's best'

Airport operator BAA has announced a £40m investment package which it claims can make Edinburgh airport one of the leading aviation hubs in Europe.

The money will be used for a major terminal extension that will increase capacity, create a purpose-built screening area and provide new shops, bars and restaurants for passengers.

 Edinburgh will have the capacity to handle up to 13m passengers a year by using the 14 new x-ray machines that will be installed in the security search area.

The investment is the first stage of a £100m scheme to improve Edinburgh airport over the next five years.

Gordon Dewar, managing director of the hub, said: 'This BAA investment is a significant vote of confidence in Edinburgh airport. It will help stimulate the local economy and create or support hundreds of jobs at what is obviously a difficult time for the airline industry and for the wider economy.

"Edinburgh airport is an economic asset of national importance, sustaining our vital tourist industry and supporting many thousands of jobs across the capital, and across Scotland.'

Glasgow airport reopened its inner forecourt this week after a £2m security improvement project, providing access to the area for buses and taxis.