 Glasgow airport plans expansion
Glasgow airport has announced a £25m expansion plan to improve facilities for passengers and traffic access to the site over the next two years.
Planned developments include improving the airport road system, a new food court, a new runway lighting system and upgrades to the airfield taxiway.
The airport will invest £12m in 2010, followed by a further £13m in 2011.
By 2014, when Glasgow hosts the Commonwealth Games, the airport expects to spend between £85m and £100m.
The airport's main passenger lounge, skylounge, will also be refurbished along with improvements to the internal layouts of the main terminal building in an effort to create "a more seamless passenger journey through the airport".
The airport is also contributing £1m towards the cost of the M74 extension which, it is hoped, will reduce journey times to and from the transport hub.
Amanda McMillan, managing director of Glasgow Airport, said: "These improvements will deliver a better passenger experience, provide enhanced terminal facilities, and improve the efficiency of our taxiway and runway infrastructure, which are essential for the smooth operation of the airport.
"This is a significant investment in the future of Glasgow Airport, and underlines our commitment to grow the airport and deliver a better customer experience for our passengers."
This is the latest in a series of high profile investments at Glasgow Airport.
Last year, it opened a £31m terminal extension - the biggest single investment for more than a decade.
The skyhub extension includes a new security search area, arrivals hall, additional seating capacity, and a wider choice of bars, shops and restaurants.
Councillor Steven Purcell, leader of Glasgow City Council said: "The importance of the airport to the local economy cannot be overestimated.
"Investment in improving Glasgow Airport is an investment in jobs in Glasgow and the West of Scotland."
Renfrewshire Council Leader Derek Mackay said: "This programme of work will enhance access and the customer experience and we welcome such a significant investment particularly in the current economic circumstances."
Ms McMillan also confirmed that the airport was in discussion with new and existing airlines in a bid to secure several new routes for 2010, and was working to fill the capacity lost by the collapse of Globespan.
More than a third of the capacity has been replaced by existing carriers at Glasgow, including easyJet, Thomas Cook, Thomson and Virgin Atlantic.
A major announcement on further additional capacity is expected in the next few days.
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