Edinburgh Airport set for 10 millionth passenger in 2014

Edinburgh Airport has said it expects to welcome its 10 millionth passenger of the year later.

It would be the first time a Scottish airport has achieved the milestone in a calendar year.

Edinburgh saw record passenger numbers in the summer, with more than 1.1 million people travelling through the base in July alone.

The airport said traffic had been boosted this year by new short and long-haul destinations.

On Monday, it was announced that Thomson Airways will fly new routes next year from Edinburgh to Cyprus and Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands.

Thomson and First Choice said the new services would be introduced for the winter 2015/16 season.

'Fantastic milestone'

Edinburgh Airport chief executive Gordon Dewar, said: "After a record-breaking 2013, we set our sights on hitting the 10-million mark this year.

"Our passenger numbers have been growing and growing and this year's successes in securing fantastic new routes to a range of short and long haul destinations has helped drive the increase.

"We're now looking forward to a new year and a new challenge to ensure Edinburgh Airport remains 'where Scotland meets the world'."

Minister for Transport Derek Mackay said: "This is a fantastic milestone for Edinburgh Airport and for Scotland.

"It rounds off an incredible year for Edinburgh which saw the airport play its role in 2014's exciting programme of events, including the Commonwealth Games, the Ryder Cup and a second Year of Homecoming."