Airbus has announced the start of construction on a new extension to the company’s dedicated wing facility in Belfast, with the goal of ramping-up production of A220 aircraft.

The expansion will enable Airbus to increase its wing manufacturing output as well as its advanced composite capabilities with upgrades like:

• Third autoclave
• Specialized wing tooling
• New cranage

The aim of these developments is to ramp up A220 production to 13 aircraft per month by 2028.

With the Belfast site being the exclusive global manufacturer for A220 wings—holding the patent for the Resin Transfer Infusion (RTI) manufacturing process—the site’s ramp-up aims to continue reducing carbon emissions and fuel burn by making the aircraft structure 10% lighter than traditional materials.

Airbus is also adding upgraded infrastructure to the site, including:

• Security gate entrance
• High-voltage electrical substations
• Office block
• Larger 650-space parking lot
• IT systems

Head of Airbus Belfast Plant and Site Anthony Rouse said, “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.”

Rouse added, “This commitment is also reflected in our ongoing skills development, including bringing onboard 40 new apprentices who will start in September this year. It’s an exciting time for aviation in Northern Ireland and for the next generation of aerospace talent."