Edinburgh Airport announces £500m expansion programme

Edinburgh Airport has announced a £500 million, five-year investment programme to expand its terminal and facilities, marking the largest capital programme in its history. The announcement was made on Monday, September 21, 2026, with First Minister John Swinney visiting the site of the new South East Pier expansion alongside airport chief executive Gordon Dewar. The investment will see the airport's terminal footprint increase by 60 percent. The first phase is already underway, with the new South East Pier due to open in the summer of 2027. Projects included in this initial phase will deliver new gates to support route growth, additional aircraft stands, and an expanded check-in hall and departure lounge. New and improved retail, food, and drink facilities are also planned, alongside upgraded international arrivals and baggage reclaim areas. The airport said the programme will support the introduction of new short-haul and long-haul routes, strengthening connections between Scotland and destinations across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Asia.