WORK has started on a new extension to Edinburgh Airport’s terminal building – the start of an £80 million investment plan to help the airport handle forecasted record number of passengers.

The three-story extension will stretch out from the existing gate 12 area, covering the old east end service yard out to the Gogar Burn.

The expansion is part of the airport’s £220m-plus capital investment programme to support growth and maintain operational standards over the next five years.

The expansion is due to be completed next summer and will see the south east pier extended to create six new boarding gates and air bridges to the new stands between Gates 13 and 14.

The extension is designed to support forecasted growth of up to 16.5million passengers in 2021 and beyond. It will provide extended immigration, customs and international reclaim facilities; a new home for the airport’s domestic reclaim hall, enabling the expansion of the baggage hall; and new shops, cafes, toilets, office space and lounges.

The airport’s chief executive, Gordon Dewar said: “There have been times this summer where we’ve experienced busy periods that have impacted on our service.

“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.”