Airline operator BAA announced on Wednesday that they have put Edinburgh Airport up for sale.

They were forced into the move after a ruling by the Competition Commission in 2008.

The move is designed to increase competition between the airports - which will then benefit the passenger.

Experts had expected Glasgow Airport to be sold because it's less busy.

But aviation analyst John Strickland, who has worked for British Airways and KLM, said: "By opting to sell Edinburgh, BAA has gone for the highest chance of a financial return.

"The decision is surprising in some respects.

"If they were thinking strategically, you would expect them to keep the jewel in the crown.

"Generally, Edinburgh could command a significant premium over Glasgow - it just has most things going for it and the trend has been that Edinburgh is growing, while Glasgow is losing out."

BAA have already sold Gatwick Airport as part of the ruling.

The sale of Edinburgh should see an increase in destinations, with more long-haul flights to America and Asia expected.

John, right, said: "It would not surprise me if more long-haul routes are offered. There could also be more routes to the Gulf with the likes of Emirates."

Cosmetic changes to the airport are unlikely with Edinburgh having recently undergone a huge refurbishment, including a new 40 million pounds terminal.

But bosses will aim to cut down on check-in time and security clearance in a bid to attract more passengers.

Edinburgh had 9 million passengers last year compared to Glasgow's 7 million. And the successful buyer has the option to fully utilise Edinburgh's rarely used second runway.

Favourites to buy the airport are UK-based Manchester Airports Group and Global Infrastructure Partners. Foreign bidders are expected to include Aeroports de Paris, who run Charles de Gaulle in the French capital.

John added: "It'll be interesting to see if there's more aggressive competition between Prestwick and Glasgow.

We only have part of the story at the moment."