Members of the Tartan Army have been given a special send-off as they departed for the US ahead of Scotland’s first World Cup game this weekend.

A procession took place inside Edinburgh Airport on Thursday, with pipers, drummers and Highland dancers escorting travelling Scotland fans to their departure gates.

Around 100 supporters were led to their gates by the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo pipes and drums, as a sea of tartan filled the departures hall.

Highland dancers performing in an airport terminal
Highland dancers helped escort the Tartan Army to their departure gates at Edinburgh Airport (Paul Chappells/PA)

Gordon Dewar, chief executive of Edinburgh Airport, said: “The Tartan Army is famous around the world and we wanted to create something special to celebrate their spirit and Scotland’s long-awaited return to the World Cup.

“There’s nothing more stirring than the sound of the pipes, and we are delighted to work with our partners at Edinburgh Military Tattoo to showcase Scottish tradition at its very best – and put on a bit of a show for all of the tourists who will be in the airport.

Women wearing Scottish hats and flags smiling amid a crowd of Scotland fans
Thousands of members of the Tartan Army are heading to the US (Paul Chappells/PA)

“Best of luck to Scotland – do us proud.”

Jason Barrett, chief executive of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be supporting our national team in the World Cup and what better way to send off supporters than in true Tattoo style at Edinburgh Airport. Nothing beats the stirring sound of the pipes.”

Scotland’s World Cup opener against Haiti kicks off in Boston at 2am UK time on Sunday.