British Embassy in Beijing Marks Expansion of Air China Cargo Services to Glasgow Prestwick Airport

British Embassy in Beijing Marks Expansion of Air China Cargo Services to Glasgow Prestwick Airport

A Landmark Reception Celebrating UK–China Air Cargo Cooperation

The British Embassy in Beijing recently hosted a high-profile diplomatic and industry reception to celebrate the expansion of Air China Cargo’s freighter operations between China and Glasgow Prestwick Airport. Held at the residence of the British Ambassador to China, the event underscored the growing strategic importance of air cargo links between the United Kingdom and China, particularly in strengthening trade, logistics, and economic cooperation.

Co-organised by the UK Government and Glasgow Prestwick Airport, the reception was described by both Air China Cargo and embassy officials as the airline’s most prominent route-launch ceremony to date. The gathering brought together senior government representatives, aviation leaders, trade officials, and business stakeholders from both countries, highlighting the importance of the new services not only for the aviation sector but also for wider bilateral relations.

Strengthening Cargo Connectivity Between China and Scotland

Air China Cargo has significantly expanded its operations at Glasgow Prestwick Airport with the launch of four weekly scheduled freighter flights connecting Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) with Prestwick. These services complement the airline’s existing four weekly freighter flights between Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) and Prestwick, creating a robust eight-flight-per-week cargo network between China and Scotland.

This expanded schedule enhances the reliability and capacity of air freight services linking Asia with the UK, offering exporters and importers faster and more efficient access to key markets. Glasgow Prestwick Airport’s 24/7 operational capability, uncongested airspace, and strong road connectivity have made it an increasingly attractive hub for long-haul cargo operators.

Glasgow Prestwick Airport: More Than a Cargo Gateway

Speaking at the reception, Jules Matteoni, Director of Operations at Glasgow Prestwick Airport, expressed deep appreciation for Air China Cargo’s continued confidence in the airport.

“Your decision to place your freight business with our airport means a great deal – not only to the airport, but to the wider community we serve,” Matteoni said. “It shows trust, confidence, and belief in what Scotland can offer.”

He emphasised that the partnership extends beyond logistics alone. According to Matteoni, every shipment passing through the airport represents economic opportunity, job creation, and closer ties between the UK, Scotland, and China. The airport views its role as a bridge connecting people, businesses, and markets across continents.

Strong Government and Trade Support

The event was attended by a distinguished group of senior officials and industry leaders, including Colin Dai, Regional Director Asia at Glasgow Prestwick Airport; Lewis Neal, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner; Li Jun, President of Air China Cargo; and senior representatives from the UK Department for Business and Trade.

Also present were delegates from the Scottish Government China Office, Scottish Development International, the China Britain Business Council, and China Global Television Network, reflecting the broad institutional support behind the route expansion.

Lewis Neal highlighted the strategic importance of the new cargo routes, describing them as a powerful symbol of partnership between China and the UK in air connectivity.

“These new routes are more than a logistical achievement,” Neal said. “They represent a deepening of economic ties and will deliver significant benefits to the UK, particularly by boosting exports from Scotland in high-value sectors such as premium seafood and world-renowned whisky.”

Air China Cargo’s Vision for Long-Term Cooperation

Air China Cargo was represented by its President, Li Jun, alongside more than ten general managers and senior executives, underlining the airline’s commitment to the UK market.

Li Jun described the Prestwick expansion as a strategic milestone for the company. He noted that the enhanced network is a direct response to the strengthening trade and economic relationship between China and the United Kingdom.

“Air China Cargo stands ready to work closely with the UK Government, the Scottish Government, Glasgow Prestwick Airport, and all relevant partners,” Li said. “Together, we aim to revitalise this air freight corridor, support high-quality economic development, and write a new chapter of mutual benefit and win-win growth.”

Economic Impact and Investment at Prestwick

Glasgow Prestwick Airport has experienced significant growth in its cargo operations as a result of increased services from Chinese carriers. In addition to Air China Cargo, the airport also handles regular scheduled cargo flights from China Southern Air Logistics and Beijing Capital Airlines.

This growth has led to the creation of more than 140 jobs at the airport, providing a tangible economic boost to the local community. Furthermore, Prestwick has invested £1 million in new cargo-handling equipment and established a dedicated cool chain team, enabling the launch of a new Scotland-to-China seafood export service in September.

These developments have positioned the airport as a critical gateway for perishable and high-value goods moving between Scotland and Asia.

Industry Recognition and Future Outlook

In recognition of its rapid growth and strategic achievements, Glasgow Prestwick Airport was recently named Air Freight Business of the Year at the Logistics UK Awards. The accolade reflects the airport’s successful transformation into a key international cargo hub and its growing role in supporting UK exports.

As air freight demand between China and the UK continues to rise, the strengthened partnership between Air China Cargo and Glasgow Prestwick Airport is expected to play an increasingly important role in facilitating trade, supporting regional economies, and reinforcing long-term bilateral cooperation.