A delegation from Hainan Airlines, which operates Scotland’s only direct air passenger route to China, visited Edinburgh last week amid a push for new Scotland-China air connections.

Hainan Airlines’ chairperson, Zhu Tao, was among members of the senior delegation, which met with officials from VisitScotland.

A spokesperson for Edinburgh Airport, which hosts the airline’s direct route to Beijing, declined to confirm to Scotland China Brief whether they met with airport officials or what was on the agenda, citing the confidentiality of commercial discussions.

VisitScotland’s marketing director Jill Walker said: “We had a very positive discussion about connectivity between Scotland and China, and it was encouraging to hear about the strong performance of the direct Beijing to Edinburgh service Edinburgh Airport.

“China remains an important market for Scotland, and we are pleased to see growing demand supporting greater connectivity between our countries.

“We look forward to the extended winter schedule, and continuing our close collaboration in the years ahead.”

Hainan Airlines resumed direct flights between Edinburgh and Beijing in 2023, initially operating seasonally from March to October before scaling up to year-round service last year.

Edinburgh Airport’s CEO, Gordon Dewar, last month said the airport was seeking to partner with a Chinese airline on new direct flights to Shanghai and Hong Kong following the success of the Beijing route.

Dewar, who is stepping down as CEO at the end of September, welcomed First Minister John Swinney to the airport this week as he set out plans for a £500 million capital investment programme which will be rolled out over the next five years.

Mark Johnston, who has been appointed as the next chief executive of Edinburgh Airport from 1 October, will oversee the £500m investment. Originally from Edinburgh, he is currently chief operating officer at London Gatwick Airport and was previously managing director of Glasgow Airport.

Johnston said: “I’m incredibly proud to be appointed chief executive of Edinburgh Airport, an airport that means a great deal to me as someone born and raised in this fantastic city. It’s also an exciting time to be joining the airport as it embarks on the largest ever capital investment programme in its history.

“Its continued growth is a testament to the strength of the highly skilled team in place, and whose reputation is recognised across the industry. I’m looking forward to working alongside them as we continue to grow, strengthen connectivity and play our part in supporting Scotland and the UK’s economy.

“I also want to pay tribute to Gordon Dewar, who leaves behind an exceptionally strong business and an airport that has gone from strength to strength under his leadership. He is someone I have always respected and admired and it’s a real privilege to be returning to my home city to build on that success at Scotland’s busiest airport.”

The airport says the investment will pave the way for future growth by delivering significant improvements across terminal expansion, airport infrastructure, passenger facilities and operational operations.

Swinney toured the South East Pier expansion site, which is due to fully open in summer 2027.

In a press release, Edinburgh Airport said the investment “will support new long-haul and short-haul routes, growing connectivity between Scotland and key markets across Europe, North America, the Middle East, Asia and beyond”.

The first phase of investment will include improvements in the terminal and across the wider airport campus, including additional electric vehicle infrastructure, a new access road and other initiatives.

Swinney said: “This significant investment will enable Edinburgh Airport to compete with airports around the world. Alongside delivering real benefits to passengers, this boost will support Scotland’s international connections and help drive economic growth.

“Scotland is open for business and we want to maintain and strengthen Scotland’s position as the most attractive place in the UK for inward investment outside of London and the South East. Opportunities like this airport expansion will help make that happen.”

Dewar said: “This is the biggest investment in Edinburgh Airport’s history and comes at one of the most exciting points in its development, adding another important chapter to its story.

“Our growth has cemented our position as Scotland’s busiest and best connected airport, and we know the important role we play in supporting economic growth in Scotland and the UK. This investment will strengthen our international competitiveness by growing Scotland’s connectivity.

“This is the first phase of a multi-year plan that ensures we are building for Our Future, creating the capacity, capability and customer experience we need and want. It’s part of a wider vision that will see us invest in infrastructure, operations and sustainability, ensuring Edinburgh Airport continues to deliver for passengers, airlines, communities and the Scottish economy for decades to come.”

A spokesperson for Edinburgh Airport’s owners, VINCI Airports and GIP, added: “This £500 million investment underscores our confidence in the airport’s growth prospects and our long-term commitment to supporting its development.

“It will enable us to increase its capacity while delivering an ever higher quality experience for passengers, thereby consolidating Edinburgh’s role as Scotland’s leading international gateway.”