Boeing has finalised the acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, bringing its Belfast operations under the company as Short Brothers, a Boeing Company. The Belfast site will operate as an independent subsidiary and report directly into Boeing Global Services, supported by UK leadership.

Short Brothers specialises in business-jet manufacturing programmes, producing fuselage sections, engine nacelles, horizontal stabilisers, and other flight components for leading aerospace manufacturers. The company also maintains a strong aftermarket business and is expanding its Space and Defence activities, underpinned by a skilled R&D team experienced in advanced materials and manufacturing technologies.

“We welcome the Short Brothers family to Boeing and look forward to leveraging the team’s outstanding aerospace capabilities, further strengthening the value we bring to our customers around the world,” said Kim Smith, Senior Vice President of Boeing Global Services Quality, Operations and Execution.

The integration also includes Spirit AeroSystems’ Aerospace Innovation Centre in Prestwick, Scotland, which will align with Boeing Technology Innovation to advance R&D in aerospace technologies. 

Jeremy Quin, President of Boeing UK & Ireland, emphasised the strategic importance of the acquisition. “The site’s rich history and legacy, in addition to its highly skilled workforce, is a strong addition to our operations in Northern Ireland where we already have robust supply chain and strategic academic partnerships.”

Ciara Kennedy, Vice President & General Manager of Short Brothers, added: “Boeing’s expansion of its UK footprint in Northern Ireland is a significant milestone for Short Brothers, our aerospace sector and the local economy. Joining Boeing is a huge opportunity for us to further adapt and grow with the support of a global leader.”

Read the full article on how Boeing’s acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems is reshaping aerospace manufacturing in Northern Ireland.

(Photo Credits to Boeing United Kingdom)