Edinburgh Airport has revealed a five-year, 500 million pound (670 million dollar) capital development plan, its biggest investment programme to date. The announcement coincides with a leadership transition, as London Gatwick Airport chief operating officer Mark Johnston moves to become Edinburgh's new CEO on 1 October 2026, succeeding Gordon Dewar after 14 years.

Edinburgh Airport is located in Edinburgh, Scotland, and is served by 41 airlines, making it the 141st-busiest passenger airport in the world, according to CAPA - Centre for Aviation. Under Dewar's tenure, passenger numbers nearly doubled from 9 million in 2012 to almost 17 million in 2025.

Vinci is headquartered in Nanterre, France, and listed on Euronext Paris (ticker: DG). For full-year 2025, the group reported revenue of 74.6 billion euros and net income of 4.9 billion euros. Vinci Airports acquired a 50.01% stake in Edinburgh Airport in 2024 and also owns and manages London Gatwick.

Under the modernisation programme, Edinburgh plans to expand its terminal footprint by 60%, adding new gates and aircraft stands. Retail areas, including food and beverage services, will be revamped, and a new international arrivals area will be built, including upgraded baggage claim equipment, alongside additional electric vehicle infrastructure and a new access road.

Johnston has spent the past two and a half years as COO at Gatwick, having previously served as managing director of Glasgow Airport.

"This is the biggest investment in Edinburgh Airport's history," Dewar said. Johnston said Dewar "leaves behind an exceptionally strong business and an airport that has gone from strength to strength under his leadership."

Vinci said the expansion plan "underscores our confidence in the airport's growth prospects and our long-term commitment to supporting its development," adding that it would increase capacity "while delivering an ever-higher-quality experience for passengers, thereby consolidating Edinburgh's role as Scotland's leading international gateway."

For the sector, the investment marks one of the largest single capital programmes announced at a UK regional airport this year.

Source: Aviation Week / Vinci