Aerospace sector is key to Midlands’ economy, says specialist
The aerospace market is one of the most important manufacturing sectors to the West Midlands’ economy. That's according to a leading industry specialist speaking on the eve of the Farnborough Air Show.
Simon Griffiths, chief executive of the Manufacturing Advice Sector – West Midlands (MAS – WM), believes the sector holds “billion pounds worth of new opportunities” after faring better than most sectors throughout the recession.
He said: “Aerospace sales for the UK this year are up 5.4 per cent to £22.5bn, with 70 per cent of that work set to be completed for overseas markets."
His comments came ahead of the launch of the week-long Farnborough Air Show, which begins today. More than 20 regional specialists will showcase their expertise and products to more than 100,000 potential buyers following a link-up between MAS-WM and the Midlands Aerospace Alliance (MAA).
New aerospace models such as the Airbus A380 and F22 Raptor will also be unveiled throughout the week.
“It was about time the region had a major presence at the show and working with the MAA we believe we’ve pulled together some of the most dynamic companies in the West Midlands”, he added.
“[These] companies provide state-of-the-art flight systems, hi-tech titanium components and precision safety parts.”
