The sky is the limit for Prestwick Airport

Oct 31 2008

PRESTWICK Airport is set for huge expansion as it bids for a bold future.

Bosses plan to build a new terminal, launch transatlantic flights and more than double passenger numbers.

The radical growth is outlined in a draft master plan for the airport’s future, which we can reveal.

They want to create 2000 jobs and say Prestwick will be handling 12 million passengers per year by 2033.

Chief Executive Mark Rodwell admitted: “There is no doubt that the aviation industry is currently facing a challenging time with volatile fuel prices and unfavourable economic conditions.

“But the unique thing about this industry is that it always bounces back stronger than before.

“We’ve seen it with SARS and September 11 and it will happen again here.

“Our growth predictions are based on the greater of three possible scenarios and it assumes that a number of business opportunities come to fruition, as well as new developments in the domestic, European and long haul markets.”

Mr Rodwell revealed flights across the Atlantic could be leaving Prestwick “within a few years”.

And work has already begun on a £1.7 million development of the existing departure lounge, which should be finished by Easter.

Mr Rodwell added: “We’re not in a position yet to build a new terminal but at some stage we will.

“Our growth will be taken in steps and we have to be flexible but we’re already studying designs for a terminal.”

Prestwick are also expecting a boom in freight traffic – rising at an average of 4 per cent every year.

The airport’s large runway, combined with freight congestion at other UK airports, is predicted to mean positive results for Prestwick.

The bold master plan comes hot on the heels of Ryanair launching another three routes from Prestwick to Tenerife, Malaga and Faro.

Mr Rodwell admitted: “These new services are a beacon of light. While many airlines are cutting back on services, this clearly shows how committed Ryanair is to its base here at Prestwick.”

TAKE-OFF: Prestwick Airport wants to expand. ayp281008airport