Last month, Prime Minister Keir Starmer gave UK aerospace a boost with funding of £975 million over the next five years, thereby supporting thousands of highly skilled jobs throughout the UK. This will particularly support aerospace centres in places like Broughton, Filton and Derby, as the Government has extended the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) Programme, the aim being to speed up innovation, create job opportunities, and support the industry.
Mr Starmer said: “From modern aircraft engines to helicopters, the UK’s aerospace industry is truly world-class. The UK is at the forefront of cutting-edge aerospace industry, and by accelerating our investment we will unlock the tech of the future and take a crucial step forward in our mission to deliver growth and opportunity throughout our country.
“The Government’s investment provides industry with long-term confidence in the UK as a place to in turn invest in cutting-edge aerospace technology and help extend the UK’s global lead in wings and engine manufacturing, while also working to deliver zero-emission flights. Bidding for the funding will open in January, with projects expected to begin from the autumn.
“Aerospace will also be at the heart of the Government’s Industrial Strategy, while also having an important global role in achieving our ‘net zero’ targets and defence, with the RAF and Royal Navy both relying on its technology.”
Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds added: “Our world-class aerospace sector added almost £40 billion to the economy last year, supporting high-skilled jobs in every part of the UK. Backing the sector with this funding will ensure the UK can continue to pioneer new technologies, all while delivering the economic growth that will be felt in communities across the country.”
John Harrison, the chair of Airbus UK, concluded: “The commitment of £975 million for the aerospace sector over five years offers certainty for long-term sustainable aviation investment and highly skilled jobs, delivering on the UK’s R&D and growth plan and acknowledging Aerospace’s key role in the upcoming Industrial Strategy.”