Airbus announces further investment in innovation and skills

Companies in the Airbus Group in the UK will be making investments in future skills and innovation aimed at retaining the UK aerospace sector’s premier position internationally.    

Three Airbus-led research projects have been announced in conjunction with the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills under the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI). They include research into electrically powered airliners, landing gear technologies aimed at reducing fuel burn and future wing development.

Also, as part of the Aerospace Growth Partnership, Airbus is leading a £20 million Employer Ownership of Skills Pilot which will involve other major UK aerospace companies in developing existing and future talent in the sector. The funding will be used to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals by giving them a chance to experience working in the sector.

It will bring together aerospace employers from across the industry to design and develop new apprenticeship programmes aimed at equipping learners with the skills and qualities needed to compete in a global market.

Six new Master’s degree courses are also planned aimed at providing existing aerospace employees with high level technical skills allowing them to progress.

Speaking on the ATI projects, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Tom Williams, said:

“The aerospace sector provides a huge boost to the national economy and this latest announcement of investment is excellent news for the UK and its aerospace sector, which is the largest in Europe and second largest in the world. 

“The projects will be led by Airbus and will see our  Filton facility further develop expertise, allowing the UK to be play a major role in producing aircraft which embrace the latest technologies. It also follows a similar announcement of major ATI investment made by the Prime Minister in November last year, which included research and manufacturing facilities.”

Referring to the Employer Ownership of Skills Pilot, Airbus HR Director and UK General Manager, Mark Stewart said: 

“This initiative will see  employers leading the development of skills  for UK aerospace and it will benefit the multitude of companies and their supply chains working across the sector.

“It has been a fantastic team effort by a cross section of companies and the Regional Trade Associations. Airbus is proud to be leading this major investment between government and business and our continuing support of the Aerospace Growth Partnership.”