The landmark submarine will take 2-3 hours to move

The 25-tonne landmark was moved from Chevasse Park last year to allow work to start on the Paradise Project, which will redevelop 42 acres of the city.

The airport asked the council if it could house the vessel to fit in with its Beatle's theme.

Managing Director Neil Pakey joked the airport's slogan may change from "above us only sky" to "below us only sea."

"As part of Liverpool becoming the European Capital of Culture in 2008, we are determined to support and be part of the public arts agenda", he said.

Other airports have the Concorde, we have the Yellow Submarine Airport boss Neil Pakey

"Other airports have the Concorde, we have the Yellow Submarine, it makes us smile and we hope it will bring pleasure to our travellers too."

The submarine will stand on the main public walkway outside the front of the terminal building from Sunday.

It is expected to take two to three hours to move the 51ft (16m) vessel from the council depot where it has been held since September 2004.

It has since been repainted and repaired.

The submarine was built in 1984 by apprentices from the Cammell Laird shipyard, to go on display at the International Garden Festival.

Councillor Mike Storey, leader of Liverpool City Council added: "The Yellow Submarine fits in well with the Beatles theme which is developing at John Lennon Airport."

The �850m Paradise Project includes three new department stores, two hotels, a recording studio, restaurants, homes, offices, a gallery and a new bus station.