The Scottish airport is embarking on a multi-year programme aimed at boosting connectivity, sustainability and overall passenger experience.
Edinburgh airport has appointed a new chief executive as it embarks on a £500 million expansion project.
Mark Johnston, currently the chief operating officer of London Gatwick airport and former managing director of Glasgow airport, will assume the role on 1 October. The appointment marks a return to the city where he was born and raised.
Johnston succeeds Gordon Dewar, who announced in February 2026 that he would step down. During his 14 years at the helm, Dewar oversaw an 85% growth in annual passenger numbers, rising from 9 million in 2012 to nearly 17 million in 2025.
The leadership transition comes as Edinburgh airport launches the largest capital investment initiative in its history, committing over £500 million ($662 million) across the next five years.
The five-year programme represents the first phase of a broader multi-year investment plan for the airport.
Slated to fully open in summer 2027, the investment’s developments will include new gates to support route expansion, additional aircraft stands, an expanded check-in hall and departure lounge, a 60% increase in terminal footprint, enhanced retail and dining options, and upgraded international arrivals and baggage handling facilities – all designed to boost connectivity with key markets across Europe, North America, the Middle East, Asia and beyond.
The first phase of the programme will focus specifically on terminal transformation while also making campus-wide improvements such as expanded electric-vehicle infrastructure and a new airport access road.
Edinburgh airport says that the investment also aligns with its Greater Good sustainability strategy, launched in 2021 to reduce carbon emissions and support sustainable economic growth.
“Our growth has cemented our position as Scotland’s busiest and best connected airport, and we know the important role we play in supporting economic growth in Scotland and the UK,” says Dewar.
According to a 2025 report by BiGGAR Economics, Edinburgh Airport generated £2.7 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) and supported nearly 44,000 jobs across the Scottish economy.
The £500 million investment project comes just two years after French operator VINCI Airports acquired a 50.01% stake in Edinburgh Airport from Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) for £1.27 billion ($1.58 billion).
“This significant investment will enable Edinburgh Airport to compete with airports around the world,” says First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney. “Scotland is open for business and we want to maintain and strengthen Scotland’s position as the most attractive place in the UK for inward investment outside of London and the South East.”
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