Ards Airfield Event Praised By Jim Shannon MP
The MP for Strangford, Jim Shannon, has called on the next generation of local innovators to spearhead Northern Ireland’s multi-billion pound aerospace sector during a landmark event at Newtownards Airfield last Saturday.
Speaking to attendees at the historic site, the Strangford MP highlighted the region’s transition from Ulster’s first commercial gateway to a global aviation powerhouse that currently produces 30% of the world’s aircraft seats.
Jim Shannon MP reminded the audience of the deep historical significance of Ards Airfield, which opened on 31st August 1934 as Northern Ireland’s first-ever civil commercial airport and later served as a vital RAF Fighter Command base during World War II.
Jim Shannon said: “History wasn’t just made here; it was engineered here. If you think you need to move to London, Toulouse, or Seattle to build a world-class career in aerospace, think again.
“Northern Ireland doesn’t just participate in the global aerospace sector—we lead it. The aerospace, defence, and space industry in Northern Ireland now acts as a massive economic engine, generating more than £2.2 billion in annual revenues.”
He outlined several key statistics showcasing the strength of the local sector – local aerospace workers generate approximately £111,000 each, which is 40% higher than the UK national average.
The region experienced an 83% spike in commercial aircraft orders in early 2026, helping to address a global backlog of 17,000 unfilled jet orders.
By 2030, the region is projected to export up to £2 billion in advanced drone, space, and air mobility tech, with local components and thrusters expected to carry cargo to the Moon within a decade.
World-class opportunities exist right on the doorstep of the Ards and North Down borough, specifically pointing to Magellan Aerospace in nearby Greyabbey.
The Greyabbey facility operates as a dedicated Centre of Excellence for manufacturing critical structural components for major aircraft like the Airbus A320, A350, and Boeing models.
Shannon praised the Magellan Apprenticeship Programme, run in partnership with the South Eastern Regional College (SERC) SPACE Campus in Bangor, as an ideal pathway for young people to enter the industry with zero student debt and highly competitive salaries.
