A bidder has emerged for Prestwick Airport, with discussions said to be “very active”.

First Minister John Swinney confirmed to a Holyrood committee that it remained the government’s intention to return the publicly-owned hub to the private sector.

The Ayrshire airport was acquired by the Scottish Government for £1 in 2013 and has returned a fifth year of operating profit, though it still has outstanding loans.

Appearing at the twice-yearly Conveners Group meeting at Holyrood on Wednesday, Mr Swinney said at least one bid is currently under consideration for the airport.

When asked by Economy and Fair Work Committee convener Colin Smyth whether he was aware of an active offer, the First Minister replied: “I am. That’s a matter that’s currently under very active consideration.

“I cannot quite recall the exact stage of those discussions, but if there is more information I can share with the group, I will write to the Presiding Officer and Mr Smyth on that.

“But these are very active and live issues at the present moment.”

Budget carrier Ryanair is currently the only major passenger airline operating regular flights from the base, though it is has a growing cargo division and in February signed an agreement with Hong Kong Cargo to carry shipments into Scotland from three of the top four e-commerce platforms in Hong Kong: Shein, Temu and TikTok.