Work has started on a new £80m (US$104m) three-story terminal extension at Edinburgh Airport in Scotland, which will stretch from the existing gate 12 area, and cover the old east-end service yard. The expansion is part of the airport’s £220m (US$280m) capital investment program to support growth and maintain operational standards over the next five years.
The expansion is due to be completed by summer 2018 and will see the South East Pier extended to create new boarding gates and seating areas between gates 13 and 14.
Designed to support forecasted growth of up to 16.5 million passengers in 2021 and beyond, it will provide extended immigration, customs and international reclaim facilities; a new domestic reclaim hall, enabling the expansion of the existing baggage hall into the current domestic reclaim area; new retail opportunities, food and beverage options, toilets, office space, VIP lounges, and retail storage; six new gates, gate seating areas and connectivity via a series of fixed links; and air bridges to the new stands.
Gordon Dewar, chief executive, Edinburgh Airport, said, “This is a major investment for the capital and Scotland, and further establishes Edinburgh Airport as one of the most innovative and forward thinking airports in the UK. We are Scotland’s busiest airport and the fastest growing airport in the UK – and that demand is only going to grow with the record numbers of passengers we expect to see passing through the terminal.
“There have been times this summer where we’ve experienced busy periods that have impacted on our service and this investment in new facilities will ensure we have the infrastructure needed to handle more passengers and provide them with a positive experience whether arriving or departing.
“As Scotland’s gateway to the world, it’s vital that we have first-class infrastructure and we will continue to invest in that, creating more jobs, supporting the economy and opening up Scotland to the world.”