Edinburgh airport (EDI)

Edinburgh Airport (EDI), originally opened in March 1916 as a military air base and converted to civilian use on 19 May 1947, is the busiest airport in Scotland and the sixth busiest in the United Kingdom. It serves as the main international gateway to the Scottish capital, operating domestic flights and international connections to Europe, the Middle East and North America.

Official Website: edinburghairport.com

Telephone: +44 131 357 6337

Social Media:

Terminals

The airport features a single, compact and efficient passenger terminal operating 24 hours a day. The building is functionally divided by levels: the ground floor is dedicated to check-in and arrivals areas (both domestic and international), while the upper level houses the security screening and departure lounges with all boarding gates.

Annual Passenger Traffic (2024): 15.8 million passengers.

Information Points

There is a combined airport and VisitScotland information desk located next to the International Arrivals area. Staff can provide guidance on airport services, transport to the city centre and tourist recommendations.

 Location

The airport is located in the Ingliston area, 9 km (5.6 miles) west of Edinburgh city centre.

Parking services at Edinburgh airport (EDI)

The airport offers a wide range of parking options tailored to different timeframes and budgets, from areas adjacent to the terminal to more economical car parks connected by complimentary shuttle buses. It is recommended to book in advance via the official website to guarantee availability and access discounted rates.

Terminal Multi-storey

This is the closest and most convenient car park, located directly opposite the terminal and connected via a covered walkway on Level 2. As a covered multi-storey facility, it protects vehicles from adverse weather conditions. This area also includes FastTrack Parking spaces, which provide passengers with priority access to security screening.

Terminal Surface

Located outdoors and just a 2-minute walk from the main terminal building. It is an ideal option for those seeking immediate proximity while preferring surface-level parking. It includes a dedicated area for stays of up to one hour, designed for passengers picking up arrivals.

Mid and Long Stay Parking

• Mid Stay: Located approximately a 5-minute walk from the terminal. It offers a balance between cost and proximity, eliminating the need for shuttle bus transfers.
• Long Stay: Designed for longer trips. It is situated further from the main terminal and is connected by a pedestrian walkway (approximately 10 to 12 minutes on foot).
• Plane Parking: The airport’s most economical option. It requires a short shuttle bus transfer to the terminal (around 10 minutes).

FastPark

This is an efficient automated valet parking service. Drivers leave their vehicle in one of the designated bays and deposit their keys in a digital kiosk. The system scans the vehicle and airport staff park it in a secure area, allowing passengers to walk directly to the check-in area.

Passenger Drop-off and Pick-up

The airport provides regulated zones for these operations:

• Drop-off: A designated drop-off zone located within a short walking distance of the terminal.
• Pick-up: The passenger pick-up area is located on the ground floor (Level 0) of the multi-storey car park.

Both zones operate under a time-based charging system. A limited free drop-off and pick-up option is available in the Long Stay car park.

Electric Vehicle Charging

Electric vehicle charging points are available in the Terminal Surface and Plane Parking car parks. The service is available to users of these areas and is managed via compatible mobile applications indicated at the charging stations.

More information and bookings: Official parking

Facilities for passengers with special needs

Edinburgh Airport works to ensure accessibility for all passengers, offering support services from the moment of arrival at the airport through to boarding. To ensure a smooth experience, it is essential that you inform your airline or travel agent of your specific needs at least 48 hours in advance.

Requesting Assistance

Upon arrival at the airport, you should proceed to the Special Assistance desk, located in the check-in area near the main terminal entrance. Assistance call points are also available in the car parks, the tram area and at bus stops for those who require help accessing the building.

Facilities and Accessibility

The terminal is designed to facilitate movement for passengers with reduced mobility and offers the following facilities:

• Parking: Designated parking spaces for Blue Badge holders are available in all airport car parks.
• Mobility: Access ramps, suitably sized lifts and wheelchairs available upon request.
• Accessible Toilets: Accessible toilets are located throughout the terminal. In addition, the airport provides facilities equipped with height-adjustable changing benches and hoists, located both in the arrivals area (public zone) and in the departure lounge (after security).
• Sensory Support: Induction loop systems for passengers with hearing impairments and adapted signage. Assistance dogs are permitted, provided all relevant travel regulations are met.

Hidden Disabilities and Autism

For passengers with hidden disabilities, such as autism, dementia or learning disabilities, the airport participates in the Sunflower Lanyard programme. Wearing this sunflower lanyard discreetly signals to staff that the traveller may require additional time, patience or support during security and boarding procedures.

Travel preparation guides and sensory maps are also available for download from the official website, helping passengers to familiarise themselves with the airport environment in advance.