BUILDING work has begun on an extension to Edinburgh Airport, which is investing £80 million to help it handle up to 16.5 million passengers annually by 2021.

The airport has enjoyed rapid growth and handled a record 12.4 million passengers last year - a rise of 11 per cent on 2015.

The three-storey addition will extend from the existing gate 12 area, covering the old east end service yard out to the Gogar Burn.

Edinburgh Airport said the expansion, which would see the south-east pier extended to create new boarding gates and seating areas between gates 13 and 14, was due to be completed by summer 2018.

It added that the expansion would provide six new gates, as well as extended immigration, customs and international baggage reclaim facilities. Retail and food outlets will also be included in the extension.

The airport noted the expansion was part of a £220m-plus capital investment programme to “support growth and maintain operational standards over the next five years”.

Chief executive Gordon Dewar said: “We are Scotland’s busiest airport and the fastest-growing airport in the UK.

“There have been times this summer where we’ve experienced busy periods that have impacted on our service, and this investment in new facilities will ensure we have the infrastructure needed to handle more passengers and provide them with a positive experience.”