Glasgow airport gears up for 2014 Commonwealth Games

Glasgow airport has unveiled plans for a £25m expansion to boost capacity and improve passenger facilities ahead of 2014 when the city will be hosting the Commonwealth Games.

Proposed developments include upgrading the airport road network and airfield taxiway, plus construction of a new runway lighting system and new food court.
The airport will invest £12m in 2010, followed by £13m in 2011.

The investments come as part of an estimated £85m to £100m that will be spent by the airport prior to the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Last year, it opened a £31m terminal extension - the biggest single investment for more than a decade.

The aim of this latest injection is to create “a more seamless passenger journey through the airport” with improved layouts to the interior and the refurbishment of the passenger lounge.

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.”

McMillan also confirmed that the airport was in discussion with new and existing airlines to secure several new routes for 2010, and was working to fill the void caused 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More than a third of the capacity has been replaced by existing carriers at Glasgow, including easyJet, Thomas Cook, Thomson and Virgin Atlantic.

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.”