'Shorts' Bombardier Aerospace Marks Centenary

Bombardier Aerospace Belfast - formerly Short Brothers - has launched a year of celebrations to mark a century of aviation heritage.

Shorts pedigree is unrivalled in aviation. Aircraft have been built by the company since the Wright brothers took to the skies and placed an order for six "Wright Flyers".

In the century since then, Shorts has been responsible for some of the world's best known aircraft - including the Sunderland flying boat and Stirling bomber.

Shorts was originally based in England, but moved to Northern Ireland just before World War II.

It was felt that the firm was less likely to be a military target in its new location.

During the war, the firm was taken over by the government and remained in public ownership until it was bought by Bombardier in the late 1980's.

This week, at a special ceremony at their Queen’s Island facility, signage celebrating 100 years of aircraft innovation was officially unveiled by the Northern Ireland Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Nigel Dodds, in the presence of current and former employees.

Speaking at the ceremony, Michael Ryan, Vice-President and General Manager, Bombardier Aerospace Belfast, said: "As a major contributor to the local economy, we have a wonderful aviation heritage. The engineering knowledge, ingenuity, and skills of our employees that have been the hallmark of our company throughout the last century continue today.

"This centenary year is not just an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of the past, but to look forward to the next 100 years. As a world leader in key aerospace technologies, such as advanced composites and engine nacelle development, we are continuing to progress new technologies to ensure we remain at the forefront of aviation excellence, and carry on the tradition of innovation in which our company has always been rooted."

The calendar of events for employees during the centenary year includes Family Days, aircraft displays, competitions and special events, and a commemorative book of photos, whilst external activities will include sponsorship of an international aeronautical conference, themed participation at the Farnborough International Air Show in July, events in Europe, and a special Centenary Gala Dinner.

Bombardier Aerospace, Belfast is one of the largest aerospace companies in the UK and makes a significant contribution to the economy. It produces around 10 per cent of Northern Ireland’s manufacturing exports, has an annual spend of almost £140m among some 800 suppliers in the UK and Ireland, and has the largest modern apprenticeship scheme on the island.

It also contributes to the community through its charitable foundation, which donates two per cent of its pre-tax profits to Northern Ireland-based charities focusing on education, equal opportunities, the environment and economic regeneration programmes. Its training, education, and economic regeneration initiatives have won national and regional awards.

(GK)(BMcC)