AN American aircraft engine manufacturer has unveiled £57 million plans to expand and modernise its site in Prestwick.
The GE Aerospace project will strengthen capacity and operational flow at its Prestwick base, allowing it to better support customers across its commercial engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul network.
Supported by £27 million from the Ayrshire Growth Deal along with a planned £6 million from Scottish Enterprise, GE Aerospace has committed £30 million to the project. Together, the £57 million investment will support site development, enabling works and fit-out, helping prepare Prestwick for future growth, long-term customer demand and the creation of around 150 jobs at the site.
Andy Prow, site leader at GE Aerospace, said, “This investment reflects GE Aerospace’s commitment to our customers and to the future of our Prestwick site. By expanding and modernising the facility with the help of government partners, we are improving capacity, operational flow and readiness for future demand, while helping hire and train additional workers from the area.”
The project builds on more than two years of analysis and planning, informed by collaboration across GE Aerospace with the Ayrshire Growth Deal and regional stakeholders. A central part of the expansion is a new 55,000 sq. ft building. The investment will help improve site layout, logistics, access and operational flow, creating the capacity needed to support future demand. The project is being delivered on an accelerated schedule, with full operations targeted for Q1 2028.
Scottish Enterprise added that public sector support reflects the importance of aerospace to Scotland’s economy and confidence in the future of the Prestwick site. The £27 million in public funding will support site development, enabling works and facility fit-out.
Brian Connolly, leader of South Ayrshire Council, said, “This is a major milestone for the Ayrshire Growth Deal, which will significantly benefit South Ayrshire and the wider Scottish economy. The investment will retain high value skilled jobs, attract talent to the sector and reinforce Prestwick’s position as a leading UK aerospace location, while creating attractive career opportunities for future generations in local STEM industries.”
Deputy first minister Jenny Gilruth added, “This major expansion of GE Aerospace’s operations at Prestwick is a real boost for the local economy, helping to create almost new 150 jobs. It is also a vote of confidence in Scotland’s workforce, and our support for this expansion clearly demonstrates our commitment to build on the strengths of our advanced manufacturing and engineering sectors, as well as stressing the importance of the aerospace sector. Through our £103 million commitment to the Ayrshire Growth Deal, we will continue to work with partners to help transform and strengthen regional economic activity, creating good jobs and supporting growth in Scotland.”
Reuben Aitken, MD, investment & international at Scottish Enterprise, commented, “GE Aerospace’s investment builds on decades of engineering expertise at Prestwick and the site’s role within its global operations. By expanding capacity and enhancing productivity, it will strengthen the site’s competitiveness, increase its already significant contribution to Scotland’s exports and create new opportunities for skilled workers. It’s a strong endorsement of the people, skills and capabilities that exist in Ayrshire, while reinforcing Scotland’s reputation as an attractive destination for international investment in aerospace.”
The Prestwick site supports highly skilled aerospace jobs and capabilities. GE Aerospace has plans to hire around 150 workers over the next 5 years. The UK team is currently made up of 4,100 employees and GE Aerospace has invested over £7 million in manufacturing and £19 million in MRO in the UK in 2026.
Alongside its expansion investment, GE Aerospace is addressing the critical skills shortage in high-tech industries by investing in the development of local aerospace skills to help create pathways into skilled employment. A donation of £75,000 to Ayrshire College was announced today to support new training equipment for students and apprentices, as well as the delivery of a course designed to prepare students for careers in the wider aerospace industry. The donation will support around 150 apprentices and full-time students.
