Profits Rise at Prestwick Airport for Fifth Year

Continued Growth for Ayrshire Airport

Profits at Prestwick Airport, Ayrshire have risen for the fifth year in a row, confirming its continued growth and role as a key economic driver for the region.

Financial Growth and Funding

The latest financial results show that Prestwick Airport, which is owned by the Scottish Government, increased its profits in the year to March 2023 by 2.2% to £2.5 million.

This continued financial growth has been attributed to a combination of factors including government funding, increased passenger numbers, and new business.

Government Funding Boost

The Scottish Government has been a major supporter of Prestwick Airport, providing £10 million in funding in 2022 to support infrastructure improvements.

This funding has been used to upgrade the airport's terminal, improve accessibility, and attract new airlines.

Increased Passenger Numbers

Passenger numbers at Prestwick Airport have grown significantly in recent years.

In 2022, the airport handled over 900,000 passengers, an increase of 10% compared to the previous year.

New Business

Prestwick Airport has also been successful in attracting new businesses to the airport.

In 2022, the airport welcomed a new fixed-base operator, AeroCentre Prestwick, which provides a range of services to private and corporate aircraft.

Impact on the Local Economy

The continued growth of Prestwick Airport is having a positive impact on the local economy.

Job Creation

The airport directly employs over 200 people, and supports a further 1,500 jobs in the wider local economy.

Tourism Boost

The airport is also a major gateway for tourism in Ayrshire and the surrounding areas.

The arrival of new airlines has made it easier for tourists to visit the region, which is home to a range of attractions including the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and Dumfries House.

Future Plans

Prestwick Airport has ambitious plans for the future.

The airport is currently working on a £20 million expansion of its cargo terminal, which will create new jobs and boost the local economy.

Further Infrastructure Development

The airport is also planning to invest in further infrastructure developments, including a new runway.

This will allow the airport to accommodate larger aircraft and attract new airlines, further boosting the number of passengers and cargo that it can handle.

Conclusion

Prestwick Airport continues to be a major success story for Ayrshire and the wider Scottish economy.

The airport's continued growth is testament to the hard work and dedication of its staff, and the support of the Scottish Government.

The future is bright for Prestwick Airport, and it is well-placed to continue to play a key role in the economic development of the region.