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Edinburgh Airport EDI Airport Traveler Guide

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EDI Airport Insights & Guide

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Getting to Know EDI Airport

Edinburgh Airport, Scotland's busiest and a unique entryway to the enchanting city, welcomes over 14 million travelers annually. Not only is it a hub for exploring the historic capital, but it also boasts the captivating "FlightPath" garden, offering a serene escape within its premises. This concise guide aims to streamline your journey through EDI, covering everything from flight updates, terminal information, to amenities. For a deeper dive into airport insights, explore our Comprehensive Airport Guide. Let us make your airport experience at EDI smooth and memorable.

WATCH VIDEO: Join us on a walking tour of Edinburgh Airport and discover its modern facilities and services:

The airport has one main terminal building with two floors and a total of 44 gates. The terminal is divided into two areas: domestic and international. The domestic area is located on the ground floor, while the international area is located on the first floor.

The airport has a total of three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Terminal 1 is the main terminal building and houses all domestic and international flights. Terminal 2 is used for overflow flights during peak travel times, while Terminal 3 is used for private and charter flights.

Major airlines such as British Airways, EasyJet, Ryanair, and Virgin Atlantic operate from Terminal 1. Terminal 2 is mainly used by airlines such as Loganair and Flybe, while Terminal 3 is used by private and charter airlines.

When navigating the airport, it is important to know which terminal your airline operates from. The airport provides clear signage throughout the terminal building to help passengers find their way. There are also information desks located throughout the terminal building where passengers can ask for assistance.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

Edinburgh Airport has one terminal building. The terminal is split into two levels, with arrivals on the ground floor and departures on the first floor. The terminal is easily navigable, and passengers can move between the different areas of the terminal on foot.

If you need to travel between Edinburgh Airport and another airport, you can take a taxi or the Airlink bus service, which operates between the airport and the city center. The journey takes around 30 minutes, and buses run every 10 minutes during peak times. Alternatively, if you need to travel between different terminals at EDI, you can walk between them as they are all located within the same building.

Tips from EDI Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Edinburgh Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from EDI-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"If you're flying internationally, head straight to the first floor of Terminal 1. The signs are clear, but it can get busy, so allow some extra time to get through security, especially during peak hours." — Fiona M., Livingston, Scotland, January 2024

"For domestic flights, everything is conveniently located on the ground floor of Terminal 1. Keep an eye on the departure screens to avoid any last-minute gate changes." — Callum R., Linlithgow, Scotland, March 2024

Getting to/from the City

"The Airlink 100 bus is a lifesaver. It runs frequently and is a cost-effective way to reach the city center. Just make sure to have some cash ready for the fare." — Emily J., Dunfermline, Scotland, May 2024

"For a quicker ride to Edinburgh, I recommend using the tram service. It's slightly more expensive than the bus but drops you right in the heart of the city." — Alistair K., Musselburgh, Scotland, August 2024

Parking

"If you're planning a long trip, consider the off-site parking options. They offer shuttle services to the terminal and are usually more economical than on-site parking." — Sarah T., Bathgate, Scotland, February 2024

"For short stays, the multi-storey car park is convenient and just a short walk from the terminal. Remember, the first 10 minutes are free, which is great for quick drop-offs." — Robert L., Kirkcaldy, Scotland, July 2024

Inside the Airport

"Don't miss The Gathering Restaurant if you have time. Their Scottish breakfast is a must-try before an early flight." — Isla W., Queensferry, Scotland, September 2024

"If you're looking for a quiet spot, the FlightPath garden offers a peaceful escape from the bustling terminal." — Jamie P., Broxburn, Scotland, November 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Always check the live wait times for security online before you leave for the airport. It can save you a lot of stress, especially during busy travel seasons." — Ewan H., Dalkeith, Scotland, April 2024

"Arriving at least two hours before your flight is key. The security lines can be unpredictable, especially for international flights." — Aileen N., Haddington, Scotland, October 2024

iFly Tip: For a full range of air travel resources, check out our Flying Info and Tips page.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

EDI Airport offers several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. If you are dropping off a passenger, you can use the designated drop-off zone located in the multi-storey car park. This area is free for the first 10 minutes, after which you will be charged a fee. Alternatively, you can use the curbside drop-off zone located outside the terminal building, but please note that stopping here is strictly prohibited and may result in a fine.

If you are picking up a passenger, you can use the designated pick-up zone located in the multi-storey car park. This area is free for the first 10 minutes, after which you will be charged a fee. Alternatively, you can use the cell-phone waiting area located near the airport, where you can wait for your passenger to call you and let you know they are ready to be picked up. Please note that there is no waiting allowed at the curbside pick-up zone outside the terminal building.

It is important to note that there are strict curbside parking restrictions in place at the airport. Vehicles are not permitted to park or wait on the curbside for any reason. If you need to park your vehicle, you must use one of the designated car parks located on site. Failure to comply with these restrictions may result in a fine or your vehicle being towed.

Parking Facilities & Options

If you're flying out of Edinburgh Airport, you'll find a variety of parking options available to suit your needs. The airport offers both on-site and off-site parking, as well as a cell phone waiting area for those picking up arriving passengers.

On-site parking options include both covered and uncovered parking garages, as well as surface lots. The garages are located within easy walking distance of the terminal, while the surface lots require a short shuttle ride. Handicapped parking is available in all on-site lots and garages.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking lots are available nearby. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, and can be a great way to save money on parking fees.

Before you head to the airport, be sure to check out the parking options and rates at Edinburgh Airport. You can also explore off-airport parking options to find the best deal for your needs.

Get details about EDI parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

EDI offers a variety of ground transportation options to help you get to and from the airport with ease.

  • Car Rentals: If you prefer to rent a car, there are several car rental companies located at the airport, including Avis, Europcar, and Hertz. You can find the car rental facilities in the terminal building, near the domestic arrivals area.
  • Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport, with a designated drop-off area located outside the terminal building. The fare for a taxi ride to the city center is approximately £20-£25, and the journey takes around 25 minutes.
  • Ride Share Services: For those looking for a more affordable option, shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are available at the airport. The pickup area for these services is located outside the terminal building, and there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and luggage allowed.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are available for those traveling to nearby hotels or other destinations. The pickup area for the shuttle service is located outside the terminal building, and fares vary depending on the destination.
  • Public Transportation: If you prefer to use public transportation, there are several options available, including the Airlink 100 bus service, which runs every 10 minutes and takes you directly to the city center. The bus stop is located outside the terminal building, and the fare is approximately £4.50 for a one-way ticket.

iFly Tip: Learn how to communicate your needs to airline staff with tips from our overweight passengers guide.

Airport Hotels

Traveling can be tiring, especially when you have to catch an early flight or arrive late at night. That's why finding a comfortable and convenient hotel near the airport can make your journey much smoother. From the modern, vibrant atmosphere of Moxy Edinburgh Airport to the relaxing, luxurious ambiance of Norton House Hotel & Spa, we offer a variety of EDI Hotels to cater to your needs. Whether you're looking for a hotel with fitness centers and bars or the charm of a quaint cottage, we've got you covered. So, sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the best hotel options for your stay.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

EDI Airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers to enjoy before their flight. For a quick bite, there are several fast food chains such as McDonald's, KFC, and Burger King located throughout the airport. For a sit-down meal, we recommend The Gathering Restaurant and Bar, located in the departure lounge. This restaurant offers a range of Scottish cuisine, including haggis, neeps and tatties, and Cullen skink soup. If you're in the mood for something sweet, stop by The Pudding Stop for a delicious dessert.

When it comes to shopping, the airport has something for everyone. For luxury fashion and accessories, visit Hugo Boss or Michael Kors. For souvenirs and gifts, we recommend Tartan Plus, where you can find traditional Scottish items such as kilts, scarves, and whisky. If you need to stock up on travel essentials, Boots and WHSmith are both conveniently located throughout the airport.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Edinburgh Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, see your options here.

Passenger Services

EDI Airport offers a range of passenger services to make your travel experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. Whether you're traveling with children, have special needs, or need medical assistance, the airport has got you covered.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Lost and found services are also available at the airport, so if you misplace something during your travels, be sure to inquire at the information desk.

If you're traveling with children, there are designated play areas located throughout the terminal to keep them entertained. Additionally, special assistance is available for families with young children, including stroller rentals and baby changing facilities.

For passengers with special needs, the airport offers a range of services to ensure a comfortable and stress-free journey. These include accessible parking, wheelchair assistance, and dedicated security lanes. If you require any assistance, be sure to contact the airport's special assistance team prior to your arrival.

Banking services are available at the airport, with ATMs located throughout the terminal. Medical help is also available, with a first aid station located in the main terminal building.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is important to stay updated on the status of your flight. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status information at Edinburgh Airport.

One of the easiest ways to check flight status is by using the Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, arrivals, delays, and gate information. Simply find the FIDS display located near your departure gate or check-in area to get the latest information on your flight.

Another convenient way to stay updated on your flight status is by downloading the mobile app of your airline. Most airlines offer mobile apps that allow passengers to check their flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancellations, or gate changes, and even check-in for their flight. You can also sign up for text, email, or push notifications to receive updates on your flight status directly to your mobile device.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Edinburgh Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

iFly Tip: Maximize space in your carry-on with expert advice from our packing guide.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is located in Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland.
  • Terminals: The airport features one terminal building that houses all facilities, including shops, restaurants, and lounges.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines serving EDI include British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair. For a complete list of airlines, visit the EDI Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Edinburgh Airport handles approximately 30,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees around 300 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from EDI are London, Amsterdam, Dublin, Paris, and Frankfurt.
  • Hub Status: Edinburgh Airport serves as a hub for several airlines, including Ryanair, EasyJet, and Loganair.

Airport History

EDI, located in the capital city of Scotland, has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1916: The Royal Flying Corps establishes Turnhouse Aerodrome, the precursor to EDI Airport, as a military airfield during World War I.
  • 1947: The airport is officially opened for civilian air traffic and renamed Edinburgh Turnhouse Airport.
  • 1960s-1970s: The airport undergoes major expansion and modernization, including the construction of a new terminal building and runway extension.
  • 1990s: Edinburgh Turnhouse Airport is privatized and sold to BAA, a British airport operator.
  • 2006: The airport is rebranded as the airport and introduces a new logo and visual identity.
  • 2011: Edinburgh Airport becomes the busiest airport in Scotland, handling over 9 million passengers annually.
  • 2018: The airport completes a major terminal expansion project, increasing capacity and improving passenger experience.

Today, Edinburgh Airport continues to serve as a major hub for air travel in Scotland and the United Kingdom, connecting passengers to destinations around the world.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Edinburgh Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Edinburgh Airport Q&A

The Airlink 100 bus is the most cost-effective option, running every 10 minutes and taking about 30 minutes to reach the city center.
Yes, the FlightPath garden is a serene spot within the airport premises where you can relax away from the hustle and bustle.
Consider using off-site lots for long-term parking. They offer shuttle services to the terminal and are generally cheaper than on-site options.
Domestic flights are on the ground floor, while international flights are on the first floor of the main terminal, making it easy to navigate once you know where you're going.
The Gathering Restaurant offers a taste of authentic Scottish dishes, including haggis and Cullen skink soup.
For late-night arrivals, it's recommended to pre-book a taxi or use a ride-sharing app, as public transport options are limited after midnight.
Arrive at least two hours before your flight, as security lines can be unpredictable. Checking live wait times online can also help you plan your arrival.
Car rental facilities are located in the terminal building, near the domestic arrivals area, with companies like Avis, Europcar, and Hertz available.
Use the designated pick-up zone in the multi-storey car park, which is free for the first 10 minutes, or wait in the cell-phone waiting area for your passenger to call.
Use the Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS) located throughout the airport for real-time updates on flight departures, arrivals, and gate information.