Police Scotland has launched a summer operation at Glasgow Airport and Glasgow Prestwick Airport to help prevent drink and drug driving among people returning home from holidays.
Operation Safe Landing will see an increased police presence at both airports throughout the summer. Officers will carry out roadside checks, speak to arriving passengers and, where appropriate, conduct drink and drug driving tests.
Airport Commander for Glasgow Airport and Prestwick Airport, Inspector Bryan McLaren, said: “We understand that for many, a drink on a flight can be part of the holiday experience. However, the legal drink-drive limit in Scotland is strict, and the effects of alcohol, coupled with potential travel fatigue, can significantly impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
“Operation Safe Landing is about ensuring everyone arriving at the airport gets home safely, without putting themselves or others at risk. This operation will run throughout the summer season and across both Glasgow and Prestwick Airports.”
The initiative was first introduced at Aberdeen Airport last year. Police Scotland said it has already led to the detection of drink and drug drivers, as well as other road traffic offences including vehicle defects, careless driving, parking offences and using a mobile phone while driving.
Road Policing Inspector Will Hutchinson said: “We are proud to support this operation, and our officers will be patrolling the road network that serves our airports as we see an increase in holidaymakers in the summer months.
“My message is simple – If you have been drinking during your flight, do not drive. Plan ahead, arrange a lift or use the public transport links that the airports benefit from.”
Police Scotland detected more than 8,500 offences involving people driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of drink or drugs during 2025/2026.
Inspector Hutchinson added: “Drink/drug driving significantly increases your chances of being involved in a serious or fatal collision which has devastating consequences for Scotland’s communities. When you are caught, you could lose your licence, your job, your liberty, or worse… your life, or life of a loved one.
“If you suspect someone may drive under the influence, please report it to Police on 999 in an emergency or 101 for a non-emergency. You may also report anonymously through Crimestoppers Scotland on 0800 555 111.”
Police said the penalties for drink driving in Scotland include a minimum 12-month driving ban, a fine of up to £5,000, a criminal record and, in some cases, a prison sentence.
Glasgow Prestwick Airport chief executive Ian Forgie said: “We are supporting this joint initiative between Police Scotland Border Policing and Road Policing officers, which highlights our shared commitment to keeping travellers and the wider community safe.
“Holidays should begin and end safely, and this partnership sends an important reminder to arriving passengers that driving under the influence is never worth the risk. By working together, we can help ensure that everyone gets home safely after their journey.”