Edinburgh Airport. Photo: nitsawan katerattanakul / Shutterstock.com Edinburgh Airport has unveiled the first phase of a £500 million investment program that will expand its terminal, add new aircraft stands and gates, and upgrade passenger facilities over the next five years.
The airport says the program is the largest capital investment in its history and is designed to prepare Scotland's busiest airport for continued passenger and airline growth.
First Minister John Swinney visited the site of the South East Pier expansion with Edinburgh Airport Chief Executive Gordon Dewar. The first phase of the project is scheduled to fully open in summer 2027.
The wider program will increase the airport's terminal footprint by 60%, alongside a series of changes across the terminal and wider airport campus.
New gates and aircraft stands will be added to support additional flights and aircraft movements, while the check-in hall and departure lounge will be expanded. The airport will also introduce new and upgraded retail, food and beverage areas.
International arrivals will be upgraded with new facilities, while baggage make-up and reclaim areas will also be expanded.
For airlines, the additional capacity is intended to support new short-haul and long-haul routes connecting Scotland with markets across Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia.
The investment extends beyond the terminal. Edinburgh Airport says the first phase will also include additional electric vehicle infrastructure, a new access road and other improvements across the airport campus.
Sustainability is also part of the program, which the airport says supports its Greater Good strategy through modernized infrastructure and opportunities for further low-carbon improvements.
First Minister John Swinney said the investment would help Edinburgh Airport compete with airports internationally while supporting Scotland's connections and wider economy.
Edinburgh Airport CEO Gordon Dewar described the program as the biggest investment in the airport's history and said it would create additional capacity while improving the passenger experience.
The £500 million program is being backed by airport owners VINCI Airports and GIP. It represents the first phase of a broader investment plan for Edinburgh Airport and its surrounding campus.
Balfour Beatty is also involved in delivering the infrastructure works, with Managing Director for Scotland Nick Rowan highlighting the challenges of carrying out major construction projects within a live airport environment.
The expansion comes as Edinburgh Airport continues to develop its role as Scotland's main international gateway, with the additional infrastructure intended to accommodate future growth while keeping the airport operational throughout the construction program.