Increased capacity is anticipated

The decision on which of central Scotland's two main airports should be singled out for long-term expansion must not be rushed, according to their operator.

BAA Scottish Airports said Glasgow and Edinburgh airports should be allowed to meet their full potential and any early decision would be detrimental.

The operator was responding to a UK-wide government consultation on increased air capacity.

The government has been considering an additional runway for Glasgow or Edinburgh.

We would wish to see both airports grow to their full potential Donal Dowds BAA Scottish Airports

However, BAA Scottish Airports said a premature decision would jeopardise Scotland's long-term economic prospects.

Managing director Donal Dowds said: "We have seen nothing in the government's analysis that would justify taking a decision now on where new runway capacity may be needed in 20 to 30 years' time.

"Indeed we would wish to see both airports grow to their full potential."

The document, issued last year by the Department of Transport and the Scottish Executive, suggested a rise in airport use.

It said there was an expected increase from the current 16 million a year to 50 million by 2030.

The document set out a series of options and asked for views on building a new runway.

BAA has urged ministers to earmark land for additional runways at both sites to ensure options were left open.

Mr Dowds said "The cost of protecting land at both airports would be significantly less than the cost to the environment, society, communities and the economies of Scotland if only one airport is safeguarded and the need for a new runway materialises elsewhere."

The operator has also called for more partnerships between the public and private sectors in increasing international services to and from Aberdeen, Glasgow, and Edinburgh.