Scottish Airports Set for Major Upgrade with Substantial Infrastructure Investment
Edinburgh, April 25, 2025: Scotland’s aviation sector is poised for a significant boost following the announcement of a substantial £350 million investment in the infrastructure of Aberdeen and Glasgow airports. This injection of capital, the largest since the formation of AGS Airports in 2014, comes from AviAlliance, the new majority shareholder of the AGS group, which also owns Southampton Airport.
This multi-year investment plan signals a strong commitment to the long-term growth and sustainability of these vital transport hubs. The funding will be strategically directed towards enhancing terminal facilities, expanding connectivity, and supporting crucial decarbonization initiatives across the three airports.
Glasgow Airport to Undergo Comprehensive Transformation: Passengers using Glasgow Airport can look forward to a “comprehensive transformation” of the main terminal building. The ambitious plans aim to create best-in-class operational and retail facilities, significantly enhancing the overall passenger experience. The investment will also focus on upgrading airfield infrastructure and implementing energy efficiency measures at the airport, which handled approximately eight million passengers in 2024.
Aberdeen Airport to Benefit from Airfield Investment: As Europe’s largest heliport and a crucial link for the energy sector, Aberdeen Airport will see significant investment directed towards its airfield infrastructure. These upgrades are essential for maintaining the airport’s operational efficiency and its role in connecting the northeast of Scotland with the rest of the UK and beyond.
Sustainability at the Forefront: A key element of this major investment is the acceleration of AGS Airports’ commitment to achieving net-zero direct emissions by the mid-2030s. This focus on sustainability aligns with both the UK and Scottish Governments’ environmental goals and underscores the aviation sector’s growing responsibility in addressing climate change.
Economic Benefits and Connectivity Boost: The investment is expected to have a significant positive impact on the Scottish and wider UK economies. AGS Airports collectively support over 30,000 jobs and contribute more than £2 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) annually. Strengthening the infrastructure of Aberdeen and Glasgow airports will enhance their role in facilitating trade, tourism, and generating meaningful employment across the country. Furthermore, the plans include a focus on strengthening connectivity, aiming to attract new airlines and routes, which is crucial for Scotland’s global competitiveness.
Industry Leaders Welcome the Investment: Kam Jandu, Chief Executive of AGS Airports, hailed the investment as a crucial step in realizing the long-term, sustainable growth ambitions for the airports. He emphasized the role these airports play in driving economic and social prosperity across Scotland and the UK.
Charles Hammond OBE, the newly appointed Chair of AGS Airports, echoed this sentiment, stating his eagerness to work with the board and executive team to ensure AGS plays an even greater role in supporting regional trade and tourism.
Deputy First Minister of Scotland, Kate Forbes, also welcomed the announcement, highlighting the importance the Scottish Government places on international connectivity and the potential of this investment to unlock further economic growth.
This significant infrastructure investment marks an exciting new chapter for Scottish aviation, promising enhanced facilities, improved connectivity, and a strong focus on sustainability for Aberdeen and Glasgow airports. It signals a clear commitment to the future of these vital transport links and their crucial role in Scotland’s economy.