Prestwick Airport has posted a seventh consecutive year of operating profit during a year which saw a “transformational shift” in its business model.
The facility said rising cargo and passenger traffic boosted operating profit by 11% to £3.9 million for the year ended 31 March 2026.
There has been increased frequency of Air China Cargo scheduled services, and the launch of a dedicated seafood export service following investment in a cool chain centre and specialist handling team.
While cargo growth has proved a gamechanger for the airport, passenger operations also delivered another strong performance, with total passenger numbers increasing by 11% to more than 600,000.
Ryanair has increased frequencies on several summer routes and announced a new route for the 2026 winter season.
Newly-appointed chief executive Jules Matteoni said: “Cargo has been the primary driver of growth during the year. Freight volumes quadrupled in 12 months to more than 46,000 tonnes in the year to March 2026, reflecting the successful execution of our strategy to position the Airport as a leading UK cargo gateway.
“The development of long-haul scheduled cargo connectivity, particularly with Asian markets, has driven both import and export growth, supported by investment in cold storage facilities, enhanced handling capabilities and bonded warehouse infrastructure.”
A new seafood export service launched in January and has already demonstrated strong demand, with more than 1.5 million kilograms of seafood exported to China during its first six months of operation.
This has provided producers with faster access to key Asian markets and further strengthened the airport’s position as a specialist gateway for high-value perishable goods.
Mr Matteoni added: “The progress this year represents a transformational shift in the airport’s business model and provides a strong foundation for future growth.
“The positive momentum of recent years has continued, and we expect further growth in the year ahead.
“The Airport remains a major economic driver for the region, and cargo growth alone has created over 200 jobs in the past year, meaning the airport now directly employs more than 500 people, delivering significant benefits for the local economy.”
Prestwick also continues to play a vital strategic role in supporting UK military and defence operations. It has built a strong international reputation for handling military aircraft from NATO-aligned countries including the RAF, the US Air Force and the Royal Canadian Air Force. It remains an important strategic partner for the Ministry of Defence and its future operational requirements.
Mr Matteoni said: “Glasgow Prestwick Airport is a strategic national asset, and this is further evidenced by the Ministry of Defence’s decision to relocate its Voyager fleet here for five months this year while essential resurfacing and improvement works on the airfield operating surface at RAF Brize Norton are carried out.”
The airport sees continued growth in cargo volumes, expanding connectivity to key international markets, increasing passenger numbers and ongoing investment in specialist infrastructure and the board expects another year of sustainable growth.
Airport chair Willie Mackie said: “This is the seventh year in a row the Airport has returned a profit, a significant milestone that demonstrates the strength of our strategy and the sustained momentum we have built over recent years.
“The airport has now firmly established itself as a major UK trade hub and a premier gateway for Scottish exports, playing a critical role in connecting global markets with some of Scotland’s most important industries, including salmon and whisky.”
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