Prestwick Airport launches direct cargo route from Scotland to China
China Southern Air Logistics and Glasgow Prestwick Airport have revealed that the cargo flights from Guangzhou to Prestwick started this month.
The first scheduled flight landed in Prestwick on May 16.
The agreement will initially see four flights a week, with plans to increase to a daily service.
This will double the airport's current scheduled freighter movements.
Ian Forgie, chief executive of Glasgow Prestwick Airport, has described the agreement as a "game changer."
He said: "This is welcome news.
"The airport team has 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, China Southern Air Logistics, has established a scheduled service from China to Prestwick.
"We anticipate this new trade route will grow rapidly in 2025 as Prestwick delivers on its plans and the market responds to an alternative cargo gateway into the UK and a new direct export route to China from Scotland for high-value Scottish seafood and whisky.
"We are in discussions with other airlines and expect to make further announcements soon."
The airport has invested £2.3 million in equipment over the last year and continues to invest in ground handling equipment and cool chain supply facilities, as well as employing more staff, to maximise its capabilities in handling large freighters.
Colin Dai, country sales director for Greater China at Glasgow Prestwick Airport, said: "The airport has a long history and reputation for handling wide-bodied freighters, providing fast aircraft turnaround and cargo handling, delivered through our in-house team.
"We are proud to announce this landmark agreement between China Southern Air Logistics and Glasgow Prestwick Airport, and I know there is a lot of excitement from both sides to see the success of these flights."
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