The next stage of an ambitious expansion programme at Edinburgh Airport has begun.

The announcement of a new £50m development was made as Prime Minister David Cameron visited the airport.

Work on the project will involve the extensive redevelopment of the airport's immigration and baggage reclaim facilities, which will triple capacity for larger long-haul aircraft. Under the development plan, a second immigration hall and baggage reclaim area will be created at the airport, while "extensive construction" of new aircraft stands and air bridges will be carried out.

The work is the second stage of a £150m programme agreed in 2013. The first phase of the project included a new 2,000m2 security hall and a temporary arrivals/immigration/baggage hall and landslide improvements.

Around £25m was being spent on this stage, and work on that temporary structure started this week. It is expected to be operational for the beginning of June, ahead of the arrival of Etihad Airways to the airport.

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The £50m phase two investment will be constructed around the temporary structure, leaving some £75m for the remainder of the five-year initiative.

It has not been revealed how the money will be spent.

Gordon Dewar said, Chief Executive at Edinburgh Airport, said: "As we announce the next part of our five-year investment programme, it was a pleasure to welcome the Prime Minister to Edinburgh Airport today so he can see the extensive changes we've already made and those we are about to start.

"We're committed to providing our passengers with choice and giving them the best experience. The work we'll be carrying out over the next four years will transform our airside facilities, tripling our capacity to handle bigger aircraft and paving the way for the next 10 years of increased international connectivity.

"We'll effectively be creating a new international facility for our airlines, and underpinning our future aspirations to increase passenger numbers and enhance their experience and be one of the leading European airports for our size."

Prime Minister David Cameron added: "Having first class infrastructure is a crucial part of our long term economic plan to support business, create jobs and secure a brighter future for hardworking families across the country.

"The expansion of Edinburgh Airport is great news for Scotland and for the whole of the UK. It will open the door to more long-haul flights and new routes, meaning more tourism, more trade and more jobs for people here in Edinburgh and beyond."

(JP/IT)