A proposal has been made to establish a US preclearance facility at Edinburgh Airport, which aims to enhance travel efficiency for Scots heading to the US. Ash Regan, the leader of the Alba Party, advocates for this initiative, citing the benefits seen at Dublin Airport where similar facilities have streamlined the travel process. Edinburgh Airport's CEO, Gordon Dewar, estimates that implementation could occur within two years of reaching an agreement. However, this proposal requires negotiations between the UK and US governments. The initiative is expected to strengthen economic and cultural ties between Scotland and the US, potentially boosting travel and trade. This development comes alongside Moray MSP Richard Lochhead's recent attendance at the Space Economy Conference in Los Angeles, where he promoted Scotland's potential in the space sector and engaged with various industry executives. Lochhead's trip, which cost taxpayers £11,754.81, included meetings with 13 space industry companies and aimed to tap into the US space economy. The Scottish Government defended Lochhead's visit as a means to foster trade links and create investment opportunities for Scotland. [dca57a1f][3bba36c6]