Bombardier to extend its factory in Belfast

Aerospace giant Bombardier is planning a major expansion of its factory in Belfast, according to a report in the Belfast Telegraph.

The Canadian-owned aircraft manufacturer has submitted plans that could see a 31,500m2 extension added to its 52,500m² site in the city.

Bombardier employs around 3,600 people in Northern Ireland, including 1,000 working on the former C Series jet (now rebranded as the A220, after Airbus took a majority stake in the aircraft).

The complete wings and fuselage components for the jet are made in the Canadian aerospace giant’s Belfast operation, which remains up for sale.

The proposed extension would increase the size of the facility by around 60%.

The plans include a 20,800m² expansion to the east of the site, while the wing assembly area would be extended by 4,500m².