From street to seat: Glasgow-Edinburgh bus to become first in UK with airside access

Improvements to transport connections

A bus service linking Glasgow city centre with Edinburgh Airport is set to make aviation history by be-coming the first public transport route in the UK to gain airside access.

Domestic passengers on the Citylink Air service - one of Scotland’s most popular intercity links - will soon be able to travel from Buchanan Street Bus Station straight to the aircraft steps in under an hour.

Launching this spring, the pilot will see the service rebranded Citylink Air+, allowing domestic passengers to remain on board for an additional secure stop beyond the main terminal, creating a direct “bus‑to‑plane” connection for the first time.

Airside access

International travellers flying to any of the more than 150 destinations served by Edinburgh Airport will continue to disembark at the main forecourt. A newly created airside stop - supported by a dedicated bus lane and enhanced onboard security screening - will be introduced exclusively for domestic flights.

The trial aims to encourage even more people to choose sustainable travel to the airport. Edinburgh Airport already boasts one of the highest public transport mode shares in the UK, and if successful, the initiative could be expanded to other transport partners.

'Innovative connectivity'

Avril Blague, Head of Transport at Edinburgh Airport said:

“We’re proud to lead the way in innovative ground‑to‑air connectivity, and this Citylink Air+ trial gives passengers the chance to experience Scotland’s most seamless airport journey yet.

“Glasgow is already closer and better connected to Edinburgh Airport than many people realise – and boarding your flight without ever leaving your seat on the bus is something we think will really take off.”

Fiona Jetson, Head of Elevated Routes at Citylink said:

“Citylink Air+ is an exciting extension of our already successful partnership with Edinburgh Airport and an evolution of the service our Glasgow customers already rely on.

“We’ve always aimed for seamless travel and if we can save passengers a few extra steps between the bus and their flight, we’re more than happy to help.”