Superjumbo touches down at Glasgow Airport

The world’s largest commercial passenger aircraft touched down in Glasgow on Tuesday, marking the start of a regular scheduled service between the city and Dubai.

Glasgow Airport has spent more than £8 million upgrading its infrastructure to accommodate the Airbus A380, including the introduction of Scotland’s only triple airbridge.

The Emirates jet was welcomed by a kilted piper on the tarmac on Tuesday evening.

Airport managing director Mark Johnston said: “It’s a first in Scottish aviation history and a really exciting day for Glasgow Airport.

“It’s an iconic aircraft and the airport’s really buzzing this evening.”

The superjumbo visited Glasgow in 2014 to mark 10 years of flights from the city by the Emirates airline.

With a wingspan of nearly 80 metres, the A380 can carry almost 500 passengers.

Economy Secretary Derek Mackay, who attended the jet’s arrival, said: “This represents enhanced connectivity and capacity for Scotland and Glasgow Airport.

“An aircraft of this size coming shows a vote of confidence in the city, in the country and the economy generally. It’s great news.”