Due for completion by next summer, the three-storey extension will create room for new boarding gates, seating areas as well as retail storage, food and beverage options, wash rooms, office spaces and VIP lounges.

The expansion is part of the airport’s £220 million capital investment programme, with Edinburgh airport officials expecting passenger numbers to increase by 16.5 million by 2021.

The extension will stretch out from the existing gate 12, at the east end of the airport towards Gogarburn.

It is hoped the expansion will be completed by summer 2018.

Gordon Dewar, chief executive of Edinburgh airport, said: “We are Scotland’s busiest airport and the fastest growing airport in the UK – and that demand is only going to grow with the record numbers of passengers we expect to see passing through the terminal.

“There have been times this summer where we’ve experienced busy periods that have impacted on our service and this investment in new facilities will ensure we have the infrastructure needed to handle more passengers and provide them with a positive experience whether arriving or departing.

“As Scotland’s gateway to the world, it’s vital that we have first class infrastructure and we will continue to invest in that, creating more jobs, supporting the economy and opening up Scotland to the world.”