Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) has secured a major cargo milestone with the launch of scheduled freighter operations by China Southern Air Logistics, marking a significant step forward in Prestwick’s strategic cargo ambitions.
The new service, which began on 16 May with a flight from Guangzhou, China, currently operates four times weekly — but plans are in place to increase to a daily frequency in the near future.
The agreement will double Prestwick’s scheduled freighter movements, reinforcing the airport’s role as a rising player in UK air cargo logistics.
“This is welcome news,” said Ian Forgie, Chief Executive of Glasgow Prestwick Airport.
“The airport team have been working hard over the last 12 months to showcase the Prestwick solution as an alternative Cargo Gateway into the UK, and the Board is delighted that a flagship carrier like China Southern Air Logistics has established a scheduled service.”
“We anticipate this new trade route will grow rapidly in 2025 as Prestwick delivers on its plans, and the market responds to an alternative UK gateway and a direct export route to China for Scottish seafood and whisky.”
Strategic investment and operational readiness
In the past 12 months, Prestwick has invested £2.3 million in ground handling equipment, and continues to scale up its cool chain infrastructure and staffing levels in preparation for larger freighter volumes. These developments are key to the airport’s growing reputation as a reliable hub for widebody cargo operations.
Colin Dai, Country Sales Director for Greater China, added:
“The airport has a long history and reputation for handling widebody freighters, providing fast turnaround and efficient in-house cargo handling. We are proud to announce this landmark agreement, and there is real excitement on both sides.”
Rapid cargo growth trajectory
The China Southern service follows a string of significant cargo developments at Prestwick:
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Royal Mail designated PIK as an e-commerce hub in mid-2024.
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In November, the airport signed a joint development agreement with Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) to promote transatlantic cargo links.
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In December, PIK handled its first e-commerce cargo flight chartered by Zhonger Express and Jumen Logistics, operated by Silk Way West Airlines.
These deals form part of a broader strategy to position Prestwick as an agile and efficient alternative to congested UK hubs, particularly for Asia-Europe e-commerce flows and high-value Scottish exports.
“We are in discussions with other airlines and expect to make further announcements soon,” Forgie concluded.