Glasgow Prestwick posts seventh profitable year on cargo growth
Freight volumes exceeded 46,000 tonnes, driven by scheduled China and Hong Kong services, while investments in e-commerce and cold chain operations supported expansion.
Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) has reported its seventh consecutive year of profitability, with operating profit rising 11% to GBP 3.9 million for the year ended 31 March 2026. The increase was supported by strong cargo growth, with freight volumes rising to more than 46,000 tonnes.
Freight volumes quadrupled during the year as the airport expanded its cargo operations. PIK now handles 15 scheduled weekly mainland China freighter services and three weekly Hong Kong services, strengthening its position as an uncongested UK trade gateway.
“Freight volumes quadrupled over the last year, reflecting the successful execution of our strategy to position the airport as a leading UK cargo gateway,” said Jules Matteoni, Chief Executive Officer, Glasgow Prestwick Airport.
“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.”
The airport’s dedicated Terminal E e-commerce facility has processed more than 33 million parcels, with Royal Mail and Evri establishing operations at PIK to support direct airport-to-last-mile handling.
PIK has also invested in its cool chain capability, including dedicated personnel, temperature monitoring, enhanced screening and 87 tonnes of chiller capacity.
The investment has supported the airport’s seafood export service, with 1.78 million kilograms of Scottish salmon exported during the first six months of 2026.
Cargo growth has created more than 250 direct jobs. The airport’s in-house operating model supports aircraft handling, cargo processing, fuelling and air traffic control through a single operational structure.
During the year, PIK was named Air Freight Business of the Year at the Logistics UK Awards in recognition of its growing role in UK air cargo and Scottish exports.
The airport expects further growth in the coming year as it continues to increase scheduled freighter capacity, expand e-commerce handling and invest in specialist infrastructure for perishables, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, energy and high-value freight.
