Aerospace

A jet engine with the outside panel open. People are inspecting various parts of the inner engine.

One of the largest aerospace sectors in the UK and Europe can be found in the West Midlands. We are building on our unique history of industry and transport to achieve incredible things for the future – from new uses of magnesium to new hydrogen-propulsion sub-regional aircraft.

The West Midlands Local Industrial Strategy has positioned the region as the UK’s best-placed location to deliver the future of mobility.

Universities across the region are developing smarter air transportation solutions, and the local manufacturing powerhouses are making those developments come to life.

Aerospace sector in the West Midlands

25% of the UK aerospace industry is in the West Midlands
300 members of the Midlands Aerospace Alliance available for collaboration
1st Future Mobility Zone in the UK
Front of a train. Life size train simulator.

The low-carbon supply chain

Here in the West Midlands, industry is our heritage, and the local manufacturing capabilities are advanced. We have an established presence of tier 1 to tier 4 manufacturers supplying our automotive, rail and aerospace sectors.

Our Low Carbon sector develops transport solutions, requiring new technologies and materials. This provides ample opportunities for companies who either need access to or can bolster our supply chain.

Staff and students in a meeting at UKRRIN Birmingham.

Midlands Aerospace Alliance

Supporting our local industry is a series of centres of excellence. The Midlands Aerospace Alliance (MAA) has been representing the West Midlands’ aerospace sector since 2003, helping businesses grow and increasing revenue. The MAA is a catalyst for members to share their knowledge and work cooperatively. Membership is open to all companies that are either part of the aerospace industry or looking to become a part of it.

A life size plane with various gantries and stairs around it. Flight simulator at Coventry University.

Centres of excellence

Our local, world-leading universities are deeply involved with our local manufacturing sector, building on our industrious history and developing the future of mobility. The Magnesium Innovation Group at Birmingham City University are developing sustainable aerospace uses for magnesium, delivering fuel efficiency through weight savings.

Meanwhile, Coventry University’s School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Automotive Engineering is conducting large-scale research into next-generation flight deck technologies. The business-focused outlook of the institution’s research has fostered core industry partnerships.

UK Rail Research and Innovation Network building.

Free support services

We bring together a project team from relevant organisations across the region. This team includes property agents, recruitment consultants, public sector departments and universities. It delivers a comprehensive support package to quickly and easily help you establish and scale your business in the UK.

Take a look at…

Low Carbon

Key Sectors

Learn more
People wearing lab coats and safety goggles connecting machinery on a desk.

Automotive

Future Mobility

Learn more
A car with the outer frame futuristically see through and neon blue. The inner parts of the car are visible through it. CGI.

Birmingham City University

Universities

Learn more
Curzon Building, Birmingham City University.