Airport selected for final build of new Red Arrows
Glasgow Prestwick Airport has been selected by leading British aircraft manufacturer AERALIS as the final assembly site for its revolutionary new aircraft programme – successfully beating off competition from 67 other UK locations.
The Airport is delighted that AERALIS has chosen it as the final assembly location for their light jet aircraft – a replacement for the Red Arrows if they win the contract from the UK government.
The Airport is currently in discussions to finalise a strategic agreement, and this development is a major endorsement of Prestwick’s legacy and capabilities in aviation. It has the potential to bring significant long-term benefits, including up to 400 new jobs, training and increased investment.
At a press conference held at the Airport earlier today, Dr Willie Mackie, the interim chair of Glasgow Prestwick Airport said: “There was a very early connection between Aeralis and the Airport team. When we first met there was a real energy and alignment in terms of our ambition for the Airport and in terms of what Aeralis has planned for skills and further economic development. This is a fantastic opportunity and, on the back of the recent expansion at the airport, particularly in the cargo business which has grown exponentially in in last few months, it is the ideal time to look at other opportunities that match with our vision.
“We believe this is the right place for this project, we think the skillsets that are here are absolutely aligned and it has huge potential.”
Dr Neil Barnett, Aeralis Chief Operating Officer, explained that elements of the build will take place at locations in England with the full final assembly and testing taking place at Prestwick Airport.
He said: “We are delighted to formally announce Glasgow Prestwick Airport as the final assembly location. Why Prestwick Airport? For its location, its history in aerospace, plentiful resources and a keen interest to see this happen. This all makes it the obvious choice. We analysed 67 UK sites, we visited a number of them and Prestwick secured the number one spot.”
Alan Gemmell, MP for Central Ayrshire, said: I am so proud to be the MP for Prestwick Airport. It is the gem in our crown and the jewel in this part of our country and our local economy delighted that Aeralis have taken this step to put their product right in the heart of Ayrshire. It is a vote of confidence in the Airport and the Ayrshire economy. There is a strong history of defence and aviation here and this is a once in a lifetime opportunity for the UK Government to support the UK’s first British designed, British built aircraft in over 50 years and to bring a significant number of jobs to Scotland.”
