Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) has turned a profit for seven years running, with earnings up 11% to GBP 3.9 million in the twelve months to MAR26. Behind these numbers is a rapidly expanding cargo network: PIK now hosts 15 weekly freighter services from mainland China alongside three from Hong Kong, cementing its reputation as one of the UK’s least congested cargo gateways. Annual tonnage has climbed past 46,000, while its purpose-built e-commerce terminal, Terminal E, has processed a remarkable 33+ million-plus parcels to date, with Royal Mail and Evri both running operations directly from the airport for faster last-mile delivery.
The airport hasn’t neglected the cold chain either. Investments in temperature-controlled handling – including 87 tons of chiller space and specialist staff – has turned PIK into a serious player in perishables, helping export nearly 1.8 million kilograms of Scottish salmon in just the first half of 2026. More than 250 jobs have followed this expansion, all supported by PIK’s in-house model covering everything from ground handling to air traffic control. The momentum earned recognition too, with the airport claiming Air Freight Business of the Year at the Logistics UK Awards. PIK’s plans for the future include further freighter and e-commerce growth and new infrastructure for perishables, pharma, aerospace, energy, and high value freight.
Jules Matteoni, Chief Executive Officer, Glasgow Prestwick Airport, revealed: “Freight volumes quadrupled over the last year, 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.”
(Image – full caption: Sonia Rafferty, Human Resources Director; Jules Matteoni, Chief Executive Officer; Stephen Flynn, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport; Sheena Beckwith, Chief Financial Officer; Dr Willie Mackie, Chairman; Zoe Kilpatrick, Commercial Director; Nico Le Roux, Business Development Director.)
