Airbus has begun construction of a significant extension to its wing manufacturing facility in Belfast, reinforcing Northern Ireland’s pivotal role in global aerospace and supporting the planned increase in Airbus A220 production over the coming years.
Announced on 19th August, the project will see a 6,221 square metre expansion added to the Belfast site as part of a wider multi-million-pound investment programme. Scheduled for completion during the first half of 2028, the development is designed to increase manufacturing capacity and strengthen the facility’s advanced composite wing production capabilities.
The new extension will house a third autoclave, a critical piece of aerospace manufacturing equipment used to cure composite structures under high temperature and pressure. Additional specialised wing tooling and crane infrastructure will also be installed to support Airbus’ ambition of increasing A220 production to 13 aircraft per month by 2028.
Airbus Belfast occupies a unique position within the company’s global manufacturing network as the exclusive producer of wings for the Airbus A220 family. The site has long been recognised as a leader in composite wing technology and is responsible for developing the patented Resin Transfer Infusion (RTI) manufacturing process used on the A220 programme.
The RTI process enables the production of highly efficient composite wings that are approximately 10 per cent lighter than conventional aluminium structures, helping to reduce aircraft weight, fuel consumption and carbon emissions. As airlines worldwide continue to seek more environmentally efficient fleets, the technology developed in Belfast has become a key element of the A220’s market success.
The wing facility extension forms part of a broader modernisation programme for the Belfast operation. Airbus plans to introduce a new security gate entrance, additional high-voltage electrical substations, a new office building, upgraded IT systems and an expanded employee car park providing approximately 650 spaces.
According to Anthony Rouse, Head of Airbus Belfast Plant and Site, the investment reflects Airbus’ long-term commitment to aerospace manufacturing in Northern Ireland. “Enhancing our wing facilities is a direct investment in the future of A220 wing production here in Belfast, building the capacity required to meet the growing demand for this aircraft,” said Rouse. “This commitment is also reflected in our ongoing skills development, including bringing onboard 40 new apprentices who will start in September this year.”
For the aviation industry across the island of Ireland, the investment is another reminder of the strategic importance of the Belfast aerospace cluster. Airbus remains one of Northern Ireland’s largest high-technology employers, and the latest expansion will help secure advanced manufacturing jobs while creating opportunities for apprentices and future aerospace engineers.
