Work on a £24 million terminal extension to improve security search facilities for passengers landing at Bristol airport is due to start in the next few weeks.
The west terminal extension is expected to open in summer 2016.
The new development will house 10 lanes in a central search area alongside two additional security channels in a dedicated fast-track zone.
The 21-metre lanes will enable more passengers to prepare for inspection simultaneously, reducing wait times and raising customer service standards, the airport claims.
The airport is in discussion with security technology providers to ensure the new facility maximises the use of state-of-the-art equipment.
The 9,000 square metre structure is approximately two-and-a-half times larger than the £8.5 million east terminal extension due to be completed next month.
The scheme will also create an enlarged baggage reclaim area, customs facilities, arrivals shops, and a meet and greet area, easing congestion and improving services for arriving passengers.
It will be the biggest construction project at the airport since the current terminal building opened in 2000.
Airport chief executive, Robert Sinclair, said: “Once completed, this major development will take the total investment in our terminal and wider airport infrastructure since 2010 to over £120 million.
“Not only will the west terminal extension ease the congestion we are experiencing at times this summer as a result of high passenger volumes, it will create a more attractive and comfortable environment and help to remove some of the stress sometimes associated with air travel.
“This is going to give us a clear advantage over the competition by making it more attractive for airlines to fly from Bristol, and it is a significant step towards achieving our vision to provide passengers from the southwest and Wales with a world-class customer experience when flying in and out of their local airport.”