An passenger jet takes off from Edinburgh Airport in Scotland
The airport has been closed until further notice REUTERS

Edinburgh airport has been evacuated due to a security alert after a suspicious package was found in a passenger's bag as it went through a security check.

Bomb disposal experts were called to the scene. People have been warned not to travel to the airport and no planes will take off or land while the investigation is ongoing.

Flights due to depart for Brussels, Birmingham, London and Stornoway have already been cancelled. Some inbound flights are currently being diverted to Glasgow Airport.

Following the discovery of the suspicious package, police closed off the airport terminal and its access roads.

A Police Scotland spokesman said: "Police at Edinburgh Airport have implemented a closure of the building and the access roads following the discovery of a potentially suspicious bag within the Central Search Area at around 1.50pm.

"The EOD are currently in attendance to inspect the item and officers are maintaining a cordon to ensure the safety of the public."

An spokesperson for the airport added: "Edinburgh Airport is currently closed as we continue to investigate an incident. We are not accepting incoming flights.

Edinburgh Police are also advising people not to travel to the airport as it will cause additional congestion during rush hour.

John Dickie, Edinburgh Area Commander for the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service tweeted: "Police incident at Edinburgh Airport, possible traffic problems in the area.

"Consider a different route if travelling to or from city."

Lothian Buses said the 35 and 100 services will terminate at the Hilton Hotel roundabout until further notice