GLASGOW Airport makes more than £1.44billion a year for the Scottish economy and supports 30,000 jobs, a report has shown.

An economic impact study, produced by economists York Aviation, predicted that if the hub continues its forecast growth it would contribute £2.54bn and support over 43,000 jobs.

The Abbotsinch airport is also predicted to attract 17 million passengers annually by 2040.

Airport bosses said it confirmed Glasgow’s critical role as a gateway for global exports and imports, with the airport handling more than £3.5bn in goods in 2017.

Mark Johnston, managing director at Glasgow Airport, said: “This study confirms the huge economic benefits the airport generates for the city and Scotland each year.

“With a total annual economic impact of £1.44bn supporting over 30,000 jobs nationwide, the findings are very encouraging and show that when Glasgow Airport succeeds Scotland shares the benefit.

“These findings are hugely significant and we want to continue to grow in a sustainable and responsible manner.”

An Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District (AMID) next to the airport is also expected to create up to 10,000 additional jobs.

Two anchor tenants are confirmed, the £56million Medical Manufacturing Innovation Centre and the £65m National Manufacturing Institute for Scotland.

Stuart Patrick, chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce said: “The results of this study further reinforce the view that Glasgow Airport is the West of Scotland’s most important transport hub and strengthens the case for it having a nationally-funded direct rail connection.

“Glasgow’s economic strategy is aiming for one million new inbound tourists every year and is planning for a growing population, 100,000 new jobs and the same number of new houses around the region.”