Airport on track for busiest tag

Edinburgh Airport has seen its nine millionth passenger

Edinburgh Airport is on track to become the busiest in Scotland this year after recording another big rise in passenger numbers.

The capital's gateway saw the nine millionth passenger of the year pass through its gates in November.

The number of people on flights to and from international destinations soared by nearly a third, due to growing choice of direct routes from the city.

Overall, there was a 4.4% rise in passengers last month - to 693,053.

We have reached 100 destinations, had 29 new services, and are now dealing with more than nine million passengers David Johnston Edinburgh Airport

Latest figures from airport operator BAA show that the airport handled 9,017,491 passengers in the year to November, an overall rise of 4.8% on the previous 12 months.

The airport's expanding route network has helped to propel much of the growth, with international traffic soaring by 31% for the month of November alone.

Managing director of Edinburgh Airport, David Johnston, said: "It has been a year of milestones for Edinburgh Airport.

"We have reached 100 destinations, had 29 new services, and are now dealing with more than nine million passengers, making us the busiest Scottish airport.

"We have worked hard to widen our route network, opening up new and exciting destinations to our passengers, and expect further new route announcements next year.

"It is a busy time for Edinburgh Airport but the team here are up to the challenge, and aim to make every passenger's experience at the airport a pleasurable one.

"Our focus is on improving their journey by ensuring a smooth security process, great customer service and by investing in our facilities."