Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) has reported its seventh consecutive year of profitability, with cargo growth helping drive an 11% increase in operating profit to £3.9 million.

Freight volumes at the airport rose to more than 46,000 tonnes during the year ended March 31, 2026, supported by 15 scheduled weekly freighter services from mainland China and three weekly services from Hong Kong.

Jules Matteoni, chief executive of PIK, said: “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.”

PIK’s dedicated Terminal E e-commerce facility has now processed more than 33 million parcels, with Royal Mail and Evri establishing operations at the airport to support direct airport-to-last-mile handling.

The airport has also invested in its cool chain capabilities, including dedicated personnel, temperature monitoring, enhanced screening and 87 tonnes of chiller capacity.

This infrastructure has supported PIK’s seafood export operations, with 1.78 million kilograms of Scottish salmon exported during the first six months of 2026.

According to the airport, cargo growth has created more than 250 direct jobs. PIK‘s in-house operating model covers aircraft handling, cargo processing, fuelling and air traffic control through a single operational structure.

The airport was also named Air Freight Business of the Year at the Logistics UK Awards, recognising its role in UK air cargo and Scottish exports.

PIK expects further growth as it builds scheduled freighter capacity, expands e-commerce handling and invests in specialist infrastructure for perishables, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, energy and high-value freight.

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