Edinburgh Airport Terminal
Edinburgh Airport is Scotland’s busiest and most important international gateway, offering a modern single-terminal experience that blends history, efficiency, and a wide range of services for travelers.
Historical Overview
The airport’s origins date back to 1916, when Turnhouse Aerodrome was established as a World War I military base. It became RAF Turnhouse in 1918, playing a key role through both world wars. Commercial flights began in 1947, with the first terminal opening in 1956. In 1971, the British Airports Authority (BAA) took over, and a new, purpose-built terminal was inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II in 1977 to accommodate growing passenger numbers. Since then, the airport has seen several major expansions, including a £75 million terminal extension opened in 2025, enhancing capacity and modernizing facilities.
Terminal Description, Zones, and Levels
Edinburgh Airport operates a single, spacious terminal designed for easy navigation. The terminal is divided into key areas:
- Check-in Hall: Located on the ground floor, with self-service kiosks and staffed desks for all airlines.
- Security & Departures: After check-in, passengers proceed to a large security hall, followed by a bright departures area with access to all gates.
- Arrivals: Separate halls for domestic and international arrivals, with clear signage for baggage reclaim and onward transport.
- Levels: The terminal is mainly on one level, with some mezzanine areas for lounges and additional retail.
Arrive early during peak times (morning and evening) to allow extra time for check-in and security, as queues can be long during busy periods.
Shops and Retail
The terminal features a wide variety of shops, both before and after security. You’ll find everything from high-street fashion (BOSS, FatFace, Brora) and accessories (Accessorize, Sunglass Hut) to travel essentials (Boots, WHSmith) and Scottish gifts (Heritage of Scotland). The highlight is World Duty Free, offering perfumes, cosmetics, whisky, gin, and luxury goods at competitive prices.
Use the Reserve & Collect service at World Duty Free to pre-order your items online and pick them up on departure day—especially handy for securing limited-edition Scottish spirits.
Restaurants and Bars
Dining options at Edinburgh Airport cater to all tastes and needs. Popular choices include All Bar One (for breakfast, lunch, and cocktails), BrewDog (the world’s first airport location for this Scottish craft beer brand), Barburrito (Mexican), and Bridge & Castle (classic British fare). Fast food options like Burger King and healthy choices at Pret A Manger are also available. Most venues open from 4:00 AM until the last flight.
If you’re traveling with children, look for restaurants offering kids’ menus and high chairs, and use the dedicated family security lane for a smoother experience.
VIP and Lounge Areas
For extra comfort, the airport offers several VIP lounges, including the Aspire Lounge and No1 Lounge. These provide complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, quiet workspaces, and runway views. Access is available to business and first-class passengers, or for a fee to all travelers.
TBook lounge access in advance online, especially during weekends and holidays, as spaces can fill up quickly.
Most Popular Flights: Destinations, Duration, and Airlines
Edinburgh Airport connects to over 150 destinations, with the most popular routes including:
| Destination | Flight Time | Airlines |
|---|---|---|
| London (LHR, LGW) | 1h 20m | British Airways, easyJet |
| Amsterdam (AMS) | 1h 40m | KLM, easyJet |
| Dublin (DUB) | 1h 10m | Ryanair, Aer Lingus |
| Paris (CDG) | 1h 50m | Air France, easyJet |
| Belfast (BFS/BHD) | 1h | easyJet, Aer Lingus |
| Malaga (AGP) | 3h 20m | Ryanair, Jet2.com |
| New York (JFK/EWR) | 7h 30m | United, Delta, Norse Atlantic Airways |
Key airlines at Edinburgh include British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair, Jet2.com, KLM, Air France, and TUI Airways9.
For the best fares, book flights well in advance and consider flying midweek, when prices are often lower.
Airport Location Map
Interactive Terminal Map
Edinburgh Airport operates with a single, modern passenger terminal, making navigation straightforward for all travelers. The terminal is divided into check-in, departures, and arrivals areas, with clear signage and real-time information screens throughout.
You can access an interactive terminal map on the official airport website, which allows you to zoom in, search for specific gates, shops, restaurants, lounges, security checkpoints, and other amenities. This tool is particularly helpful for planning your route through the airport or finding the nearest facility to your gate.
Facilities (Wi-Fi, ATMs, Left Luggage, etc.)
Edinburgh Airport is well-equipped with a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable experience:
- Wi-Fi: Free unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Simply connect to the “Edinburgh Airport” network and follow the prompts.
- ATMs: Multiple cash machines are located both before and after security, dispensing GBP and some international currencies.
- Left Luggage/Storage: Secure luggage storage is available near the check-in area, allowing you to leave bags for a few hours or several days.
- Currency Exchange: Several bureaux de change counters are located landside and airside.
- Information Desks: Staffed information points are positioned in key areas for assistance with directions, flight info, or general queries.
- Other Amenities: Postbox, prayer/quiet room, lost property office, car rental desks, and accessible toilets are all available within the terminal.
If you need to charge devices, look for charging stations and Surfbox internet kiosks in seating areas and near gates.
Family and PRM (Reduced Mobility) Services
Edinburgh Airport is family-friendly and fully accessible for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM):
- For Families: Baby changing facilities are available throughout the terminal. There are also dedicated family lanes at security for a smoother process, and most restaurants offer children’s menus and high chairs.
- For PRM: The airport provides step-free access, lifts, ramps, and accessible toilets. Special assistance can be arranged in advance, including help with check-in, security, and boarding. There are clearly marked meeting points for assistance and dedicated seating areas for those who need them.
If you require assistance, notify your airline or the airport at least 48 hours before your flight to ensure support is ready upon arrival.
Security and Baggage Screening
Security at Edinburgh Airport is modern and efficient, with clear signage guiding you through the process:
- Security Checkpoints: The main security checkpoint is on the ground floor, with Fast Track lanes available for those who purchase priority access or qualify through airline loyalty programs. Additional checkpoints may be open near certain gates during busy periods5.
- Screening Process: Liquids must be under 100ml and placed in a clear bag, though new scanners may allow you to leave liquids and electronics in your bag—check current procedures before traveling.
- Passport Control: For international flights, passport and immigration control is located near the departure gates, with eGates for eligible travelers.
Arrive early during peak times (mornings, weekends, holidays) to allow extra time for security and passport control.
Lost Property
If you lose an item at Edinburgh Airport, the lost property office is located within the terminal, typically near the arrivals area. Items found in the terminal, at security, or on airport grounds are handed in here. For items lost on board an aircraft, contact your airline directly.
- You can report lost items online or in person.
- There may be a small fee for reclaiming certain items.
Keep a note of where you last had your item and check with both the lost property office and your airline for the fastest recovery