American cruise passenger missing in Edinburgh found safe

An American mother who sparked a major search after disappearing while traveling home from a cruise has been found safe and well, Police Scotland has confirmed.

Alisha Sutton, 36, also known as Alisha Bowman, had been the subject of an urgent appeal after failing to board a flight back to the United States on Sunday.

The mother-of-two had disembarked the Nieuw Statendam cruise ship at Hawes Pier in South Queensferry at 7.15am on Sunday. She was expected to travel to Edinburgh Airport but failed to arrive, leading her family to describe her silence as "completely out of character."

In a statement released on Tuesday, a spokesperson for Police Scotland said: "We are pleased to confirm 36-year-old Alisha Sutton, also known as Alisha Bowman, who had been reported missing in the Edinburgh area, has been traced.

"Thanks to everyone who shared our appeal."

The family of Alisha Sutton launched a plea after the “beloved” 36-year-old went missing | Supplied

The search followed an emotional plea from her sister, Caylynn Grall, who said the family was "extremely worried" that something had happened to her between the pier and the airport.

Ms Sutton’s family had previously highlighted her distinctive appearance, including several Disney-themed tattoos on her arms, to help the public identify her.

Police and the family have thanked the public for their assistance during the search.