Open Day set to take place at the Carlton Hotel on Thursday 22 January.

Ryanair Engineeringis inviting people across Ayrshire and beyond to explore a wide range of career opportunities within one of Scotlanvd’s most established aviation employers.

The event, running from 11:00am to 7:00pm, offers an opportunity to meet the engineering and recruitment teams, learn more about roles across aircraft maintenance, structures, specialist workshops, training, planning, document control and graduate pathways, and marks the official launch of the 2026 Apprenticeship Application Programme.

No appointment is required, and attendees can drop in at any time throughout the day.

Ryanair Engineering has been based at Prestwick for more than 20 years, during which time the operation has grown significantly.

What began as a two-bay hangar employing around 30 people has expanded into a six-bay hangar facility with dedicated component repair workshops and a workforce of more than 750 employees.

A key driver of that growth has been sustained investment in people and skills. In 2023, a multi-million-pound training investment was made to the training facility at Prestwick, enabling the business to recruit individuals with transferable skills and provide them with intensive training.

Through a 12-week programme, trainees are supported as they begin their pathway into aviation engineering, with more than 200 people already upskilled or reskilled and progressing within the company.

Ryanair Engineering has also played a long-standing role in addressing the global shortage of skilled aircraft engineers.

The company became an apprenticeship employer in 2006 and has since employed 237 apprentices, a number expected to increase year on year as the business continues to expand.

The apprenticeship programme remains central to building a sustainable, highly qualified workforce and supporting aviation safety standards.

Two main apprenticeship pathways are currently offered: Aircraft Engineer, a four-year programme, and Sheet Metal Worker, a three-year programme.

Both provide in-demand technical skills in trades experiencing worldwide shortages. Past apprentices have gone on to achieve significant success, including international placements at other Ryanair bases across Europe and progression into senior supervisory roles.

Aviation continues to be one of the fastest-growing global industries, and Ryanair’s expanding fleet and route network translate into long-term employment prospects.

Behind every flight are hours of detailed, precision-led work carried out by engineering and support teams using advanced technology in a fast-paced, safety-critical environment.

Alongside career development and progression, Ryanair Engineering continues to emphasise its commitment to local employment, clear pathways from education into industry, and a workplace culture built on teamwork and ambition.

For certain roles, this is complemented by benefits including up to 12 weeks paid time off during the summer period.

Anyone considering a career in aviation is encouraged to attend the Recruitment Open Day to find out more, speak directly with staff, and explore how their skills could translate into a future with Ryanair Engineering.

Local careers. Real progression. A future built on skills, opportunity and growth.