PRESTWICK Airport has appointed Richard Jenner as its interim chief executive.

Mr Jenner, an aviation specialist who spent a year as the airport's general manager in the mid-1990s, will take over from current chief executive Iain Cochrane on September 11, while the hunt continues for a permanent replacement.

It follows an announcement in August that Mr Cochrane and chief commercial officer Graeme Sweenie were to leave the business as part of a bid to revive the fortunes of the struggling facility.

Mr Jenner's CV includes three years as the managing director at both Humberside International Airport, from 1996 to 1999, and Norwich International Airport from 2004 to 2008.

The Sheffield University graduate also spent 12 years as chief executive of the former Kilmarnock & Loudon District Council, from 1983 to 1995.

Andrew Miller, chairman of Prestwick Airport, said: "Richard Jenner is a hugely respected aviation executive and I am delighted that he will be joining the team at Glasgow Prestwick Airport while we continue our recruitment process for a permanent Chief Executive.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to again acknowledge the contribution Iain Cochrane has made to Glasgow Prestwick Airport over the past 20 years. We wish Iain all the best for the future.

“It is no secret that the airport has faced many challenges over a number of years however, I am confident that Glasgow Prestwick has a very positive future ahead. Richard’s extensive local knowledge and aviation industry experience will be particularly important as the airport looks to strengthen existing relationships and develop new commercial links with the Ayrshire and wider Scottish business community in the coming months.”

Mr Jenner added: “Glasgow Prestwick Airport is moving through a period of positive change and I very much look forward to working with the Chairman, Non-Executive Board and everyone associated with the airport to help Glasgow Prestwick re-establish its position as one of the country’s most important strategic economic assets.”

The airport was purchased by the Scottish Government for £1 in 2013, amid fears it would be forced to close due to heavy losses.