ÉireComposites, a design, manufacturing and testing specialist based in County Galway, has signed a multi-million euro contract with US-based Spirit AeroSystems Inc, to provide structural components for commercial aircraft and business jets. Spirit is one of the world’s largest Tier One aerostructure manufacturers and suppliers for premier commercial and defence aerospace programmes.

The contract will enable the creation of 40 new engineering, quality, and high-tech manufacturing jobs over the next three years, while also securing 60 existing positions.

The contract highlights the continued commitment by Spirit AeroSystems to quality Irish suppliers following its recent acquisition of Bombardier’s Belfast operations. The scope of the contract involves complex composite component manufacturing, including assembly, part trimming and non-destructive testing services for a number of key business and commercial aircraft programmes.

Mark de Faoite, speaking on behalf of regional state agency Údarás na Gaeltachta, said: “This announcement solidifies the great work that ÉireComposites continues to deliver. We are proud to be working with and supporting this innovative and exciting company as they deliver jobs and security to the Connemara Gaeltacht region and support its economic development. It is also encouraging to see that both ÉireComposites and Spirit AeroSystems are strengthening their relationship in a post-Brexit environment.”

Tomás Flanagan, ÉireComposites CEO, said: “The announcement of the continuation and expansion of the relationship between ÉireComposites and Spirit AeroSystems is hugely significant not only as a sign of confidence of the work of Irish suppliers post-Brexit but the massive role our company will play in the future of air travel.

“In line with the impact the coronavirus had on the aviation sector last year, our aerospace sales were slower than in previous years. However, we expect to recover throughout this year and this announcement is a real show of confidence by Spirit AeroSystems in the work we undertake here in Co. Galway.

“It is our hope and our goal to return to the same level of revenue in 2019 this year and we plan on strong growth next year with the intention of expanding our work by 40 new positions between now and 2025 to bring our employment numbers to 100 full-time employees.”

Mr Flanagan concluded: “I am proud of the work we do here as we are unique to the area along the Wild Atlantic Way with a very loyal and skilled workforce and without whom this announcement and ÉireComposites’ bright future would not be possible.”