GLASGOW Airport is preparing for its busiest festive period in six years as tens of thousands of travellers prepare to take to the skies over the Christmas holidays.

More than 220,000 people are expected to pass through the airport during the next 13 days, with many heading to sunnier climes to escape the winter chill.

Others who live and work elsewhere in the UK or overseas will be making their way home to celebrate Christmas and New Year with friends and family.

Some of the most popular destinations are Dubai, New York and the Canary Islands

Airport bosses have advised travellers to put wrapped Christmas presents in their hold luggage as wrapped gifts may be opened during the security screening process.

Ronald Leitch, head of terminal and security operations, added: "The festive period is always a special time at the airport. Many of our passengers are returning home to spend the holidays with friends and family, so there can be a lot of emotion as loved ones are re-united.

"To ensure our customers' journey through the airport is enjoyable, we would encourage anyone travelling with Christmas presents to take a few moments before they leave home to double check any liquids they may have are properly packed and within the 100ml limits. If anyone is planning to take any presents on their flight, we'd recommend they pack them in their hold luggage as this will help reduce waiting times at security."

It came after the airport announced its managing director Amanda McMillan will become chief executive of the new AGS Airports Limited in a shake-up.

The company was launched to invest in Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports.

AGS officially became owner of the three airports from Heathrow Airport Holdings on Thursday, following the announcement of the deal in October.

Ms McMillan said: "This is a great opportunity at a very exciting time in the development of our airports.

"In addition to continuing as managing director of Glasgow Airport, my role will be to support the new owners and local management, while allowing the airports to operate individually."