Decision that flies in the face of common sense

IT is impossible to under-state the importance of efficient transport infrastructure to growing economies.

So the Competition Commission's instruction to BAA to sell off either Glasgow or Edinburgh Airport has serious implications for the economy of Scotland.

BAA is paying heavily for years of passenger and airline frustration at Heathrow, where the operator's plans for investment in infrastructure have been inhibited by the slow pace of the planning process.

In Scotland, the passenger experience has been altogether more agreeable, reflecting the investment BAA has made in facilities and new routes.

By and large, business and leisure travellers are content with their local airport, a view supported by responses from Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce and other business organisations to the Competition Commission review.

The Commission visited Scotland only once during its review and business leaders have been left with the overwhelming impression that they do not understand the Scottish market.

We still maintain that the sale is unnecessary – but if it does go ahead, the consequences are not disastrous for Edinburgh. Why? Edinburgh Airport now handles more than nine million passengers a year, making it the busiest in Scotland and, significantly, the airport of choice for the business traveller.

With a record £45 million of further capital investment planned for 2008 alone, there is no indication that the growth pattern is slowing down.

Resurfacing of the main runway, an expanded check-in hall, and an expansion of the immigrations hall are just some of BAA's plans for Edinburgh.

If push comes to shove, BAA will hold on to its investment in Edinburgh Airport, and it is significant that already potential suitors for Glasgow are declaring an interest in its acquisition.

There have been no declarations of interest in Edinburgh – an indication that investors are aware that it is not for sale.

• Graham Birse is Deputy Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce