Announced today by first minister Nicola Sturgeon, the investment will enable the single biggest expansion of the airport since it was built in 1977.

Nicola Sturgeon said: “This investment by Aberdeen International Airport and its owners shows great ambitions and confidence in the airport’s future in preparing for projected growth.

“By increasing capacity and improving the passenger experience, the airport is making a clear statement.”

Unveiled as part of a package of measures proposed by operator AGS Airports to handle a projected rise in passenger numbers, the revamp will see new baggage areas, shops and restaurants built at the airport.

Passenger numbers dipped by seven per cent last year to 3.5m although it remained the airport’s second biggest year on record.

The work is scheduled to complete by 2018.