Prestwick Aviation Services prepares for surge during British Open

Baillie noted, “Prestwick has a reputation of being the only fog-free airport in the UK,” which makes it a preferred destination for customers seeking reliable weather conditions. European airframers like Pilatus and Daher use it as a tech stop for North American deliveries.

The FBO operates around the clock with a staff of 27. Baillie explained their customer service approach: “If a customer calls in the middle of the night, they will get an answer straight away.” Since taking over management in 2014, after existing leases expired, Prestwick Aviation Services has focused on servicing both commercial carriers and private aviation infrastructure.

Their terminal features passenger and crew lounges, shower facilities, and more. Plans are underway to expand this terminal by 2025 near apron Golf—a ramp capable of handling large aircraft.

As one of two fuel providers at Prestwick Airport, they manage significant jet fuel volumes annually. Recently, demand spiked with visits from WWII-vintage Douglas C-47s headed for D-Day ceremonies.

With its location along the Great Circle route between North America and the Middle East, Baillie emphasized efficiency: “When you look at the figures, customers can save on fuel burn; they can save on time in the air as well.”

Currently lacking transient hangar space, Baillie mentioned plans to address this by installing pre-fabricated hangars soon: “We get inquiries from aircraft as far south as London that are parking for three or four days.”