GE Aerospace is investing £30 million to expand and modernise its Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Prestwick, Scotland, as part of a planned £57 million investment package to increase capacity, improve operational flow, and support future engine maintenance demand.
The project includes a new 55,000-square-foot building and is supported by £27 million from the Ayrshire Growth Deal, alongside a planned £6 million investment from Scottish Enterprise. The company targets full operations in the first quarter of 2028, with the expansion expected to support plans to recruit around 150 workers over the next five years.
The investment follows more than two years of planning and analysis, with the project designed to improve the site’s layout, logistics, access and operational efficiency. These changes are intended to strengthen Prestwick’s ability to support customers across GE Aerospace’s commercial engine MRO network as maintenance requirements grow.
Facility expansion strengthens engine MRO capacity
The new building and associated site improvements will provide additional space and improve the movement of work through the Prestwick operation. By enhancing logistics and operational flow, the project aims to prepare the facility for future demand while strengthening its position within GE Aerospace’s wider MRO network.
Andy Prow, Site Leader at GE Aerospace in Prestwick, stated, “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.”
Public-sector support forms a significant part of the investment package. The £27 million Ayrshire Growth Deal contribution will support site development, enabling works and facility fit-out. The wider programme is intended to retain skilled employment, attract new talent and strengthen Prestwick’s role in Scotland’s aerospace industry.
Brian Connolly, Leader of South Ayrshire Council, said the expansion would benefit the local economy and reinforce Prestwick’s position as a UK aerospace location, creating opportunities in science, technology, engineering and mathematics-related careers.
UK Government Minister for Scotland Melanie Ward highlighted the role of public funding in attracting private investment and supporting skilled jobs. Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth also described the project as a boost for the regional economy and Scotland’s engineering sector.
Reuben Aitken, Managing Director, Investment & International at Scottish Enterprise, said the investment would build on Prestwick’s engineering expertise, strengthen site competitiveness and create opportunities for skilled workers.
Workforce development supports long-term growth
Alongside the facility expansion, GE Aerospace plans to recruit around 150 workers over five years, supporting future operational requirements and developing local aerospace skills. The company employs approximately 4,100 people across the UK and reported investing more than £7 million in manufacturing and £19 million in MRO in the country during 2026.
GE Aerospace has also announced a £75,000 donation to Ayrshire College to fund training equipment and a course intended to prepare students for careers across the aerospace industry. The initiative is expected to support around 150 apprentices and full-time students, strengthening pathways into technical and engineering roles.
The combined investment in infrastructure and skills is intended to support Prestwick’s long-term role in commercial engine maintenance. With operations targeted to begin in the expanded facility in early 2028, the project represents a further development of GE Aerospace’s UK MRO capacity and its support for the regional aerospace workforce.
