Glasgow Prestwick Airport has exported one million kilograms of Scottish salmon since the start of 2026, the airport announced, marking the first full scaling of its Scotland-to-China seafood export service.
Air China Cargo increased its Prestwick-to-Chengdu service from four flights per week to daily in March, bringing the airport’s total scheduled cargo flights to mainland China to 15 per week. China Southern Logistics also operates from the airport.
Ethiopian Airlines added three weekly cargo flights to Hong Kong last month. New routes to South Korea and Vietnam have since expanded direct access for Scottish exporters across Asia.
The airport has invested in high-volume metal detectors, temperature exposure and tracking systems, and 87 tonnes of chiller capacity, according to Air Cargo News.
“Every hour saved between the catch and final market helps protect quality, shelf life, and value for exporters,” said Ian Forgie, Glasgow Prestwick Airport CEO.
China was Scotland’s third most valuable salmon export destination in 2025, rising £21.1 million (28%) to £97 million (approximately $123m USD). France led at £337.6 million ($429m) and the United States followed at £300.6 million ($382m), according to the airport.
