Airbus, one of the world’s three biggest aircraft manufacturers, is set to acquire an operational plant in Belfast, currently managed by Spirit Aerosystems. This is a strategic acquisition move to secure the company’s business as the date for Boeing acquiring the whole of Spirit approaches.

Airbus: Strategic Acquisition to Maintain Production Capacity
The Short Brothers facility in Belfast, operated by Spirit Aerosystems, focuses on producing the wing for Airbus A220, as well as mid-fuselage sections.
As the date for Boeing to take over Spirit approaches, Airbus made a move to acquire the Belfast plant and other operations in the U.S, Morocco, France and other European countries.
This move allows Airbus to secure a stable supply for its production of commercial aircraft.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
With the changing international landscape, the aviation industry has faced challenges and opportunities. While Embraer receives more orders for regional commercial aircraft, Boeing is facing a potential setback from halted orders in the Chinese market due to the embargo and trade conflicts between the U.S. and China.
Thus, Airbus’s move to acquire several facilities to secure production capacity unfolds naturally, with the group expecting the deals to be closed by the end of June 2025.
What change do you think the split of Spirit Aerosystems would bring? Share your thoughts in the comments below.