Edinburgh Airport is the busiest airport in Scotland, serving over 14 million passengers each year. It is located in Ingliston, about 5 miles west of the city centre of Edinburgh. The airport has a rich history, dating back to the early 20th century when it was first used as a military airfield. In this article, we will explore the history of Edinburgh Airport, from its early days as a military airfield to its transformation into a major international airport.
The Early Days of Edinburgh Airport
Edinburgh Airport’s history can be traced back to 1916 when it was first used as a military airfield. The airfield was established during World War I as a Royal Flying Corps training base. After the war, the airfield was used by the Royal Air Force (RAF) as a base for fighter squadrons.
During World War II, the airfield played a crucial role in the defence of the UK. It was used as a base for fighter squadrons and was a key link in the air defence network. The airfield was also used to launch reconnaissance missions and provide air support for ground troops.
In the post-war period, the airfield was used for civilian flying. The first civilian flights from Edinburgh Airport were operated by Scottish Aviation Ltd, which used the airfield for flying lessons and charter flights.
Development as a Civilian Airport
In the early 1950s, Edinburgh Corporation, the local government authority, took over the operation of the airfield. The corporation recognised the potential of the airfield as a commercial airport and began a programme of development.
In 1952, the first terminal building was constructed, and the airport was officially opened as a civilian airport. The first commercial flight from Edinburgh Airport was operated by British European Airways (BEA) in May 1952, and the airport quickly became an important hub for domestic and international flights.
In the 1960s and 1970s, the airport underwent significant expansion, with the construction of a new runway and the extension of the terminal building. The airport also became an important hub for charter flights to popular holiday destinations in Europe and beyond.
The Privatisation and Modernisation of Edinburgh Airport
In 1986, the airport was privatised, and the ownership of the airport was transferred to BAA plc. BAA invested heavily in the airport, modernising the terminal building and expanding the airport’s facilities.
In the 1990s, Edinburgh Airport became a major international airport, with direct flights to destinations in North America and Asia. The airport also became an important hub for low-cost airlines, such as Ryanair and EasyJet, which offered affordable flights to a range of destinations across Europe.
In 2006, BAA was forced to sell Edinburgh Airport as part of a competition investigation by the UK government. The airport was sold to Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a private equity firm that specialises in infrastructure investments.
Under GIP’s ownership, Edinburgh Airport has continued to grow and expand. The airport has undergone a major redevelopment programme, with the construction of a new terminal building and the expansion of the airport’s facilities. The airport has also expanded its range of destinations, with direct flights to over 150 destinations worldwide.
In 2018, Edinburgh Airport celebrated its 100th anniversary. To mark the occasion, the airport hosted a range of events, including an exhibition showcasing the airport’s history and a vintage aircraft fly-past.
Today, Edinburgh Airport is a major international airport, serving millions of passengers each year. The airport is a key driver of the Scottish economy, supporting thousands of jobs and generating millions of pounds in revenue each year. With its modern facilities and excellent transport links, Edinburgh Airport is set to continue to grow and expand in the years to come.