Airport aims to join fast-track US immigration check scheme

EDINBURGH airport is hoping to be included in a scheme to fast-track immigration checks on Scottish travellers heading to America.

The proposals, being investigated by the US and UK governments, would see passports checked by US immigration officials and be cleared by US customs at the departure gate.

Both Edinburgh and Glasgow airports, which handle more than 400,000 passengers a year on US flights, have indicated they want to be part of the scheme, if it is approved. The aim is to cut lengthy queues currently faced by Brits when they arrive in the US.

A spokesman for Edinburgh airport, which deals with 155,000 passengers flying to New York and Florida every year, said: “Anything that would make it easier for our passengers to travel would be something we would support and explore in greater detail.”

The proposal has also been backed by the Scottish 
Government.