ADS, the trade body for aerospace, defence, security and space has announced that it will open a regional office on the Isle of Man.
Plans for the new office were announced at the close of Farnborough International Airshow. The new office will be managed with the support of the Isle of Man Aerospace Cluster (IOMAC), part of the North West Aerospace Alliance.
Isle of Man Aerospace Cluster chairman Adrian Moore remarked that the endeavor was “A big step forward for the promotion of the Island’s flourishing manufacturing and space sectors and will further integrate our offer as part of the overall UK proposition.”
The Isle of Man Department Member for Economic Development, Alex Downie, OBE, MLC was equally keen to express his support for the plans. “ADS presence in the Isle of Man can only enhance our standing in both space and aerospace manufacturing,” he remarked.
The IOMAC was first established in 2006 and consists of 18 companies to date, striving to make the sector world class.
Aerospace has become a significant part of the Isle of Man’s economy and its employment growth over the last five years has been at 25%, making the sector and its future highly important for the future of the local community.
“The Isle of Man is an important part of UK aerospace and space manufacturing and services sector. Our new regional office will enable ADS to make sure that it receives the recognition it deserves.” summarised Graham Chisnall, ADS deputy chief executive of ADS.