A MAJOR aerospace investment in Prestwick has been hailed as a "vote of confidence" in the site by the area's MSP.
Siobhain Brown, MSP for Ayr, Prestwick and Troon, was speaking following GE Aerospace’s announcement of a £30 million expansion and modernisation of its Prestwick facility as part of a wider £57m partnership.
The project is expected to create around 150 jobs over the next five years.
Ms Brown said: "GE Aerospace’s £57m expansion is a major vote of confidence in the future of the Prestwick site and will support the creation of around 150 new jobs across the next five years.
"Prestwick has a proud history at the heart of Scotland’s aerospace industry, with a highly skilled workforce and a strong reputation for engineering excellence.
"This investment will build on that success, while providing new opportunities for people across the local area."
The expansion will increase capacity at the company’s maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) centre, which services GEnx engines found on many of the world's Boeing 747 and 787 aircraft.
A new 55,000 sq ft building will be constructed as part of the project, which is backed by £27m from the Ayrshire Growth Deal and a planned £6m from Scottish Enterprise.
Andy Prow, site leader at GE Aerospace in Prestwick, 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 is expected to be fully operational by early 2028.
Ms Brown also welcomed the investment in skills and training, with GE Aerospace donating £75,000 to Ayrshire College to support training equipment and a new course for aerospace students and apprentices.
She said: "It is particularly encouraging that the expansion will also support investment in skills and training, helping people develop the expertise needed to take advantage of the opportunities being created.
"This announcement is a clear demonstration of what can be achieved when government, industry and local partners work together.
"I look forward to seeing GE Aerospace’s continued growth in Prestwick and the benefits this investment will bring to the local economy."
GE Aerospace employs about 4,100 people in the UK and has invested more than £7m in manufacturing and £19m in MRO in the UK in 2026 alone.
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