Mayo Minister leads trade mission to grow Ireland’s aerospace and aviation sector

Alan Dillon, Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, is leading an Enterprise Ireland trade mission to the Farnborough International Airshow, where he is meeting some of the world’s largest aerospace and aviation companies.

The mission includes engagements with senior representatives from Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier and Archer Aviation, a leading developer of electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, known as eVTOLs, which could form part of the future air-taxi market.

Ireland’s aerospace, aviation and space sectors contribute approximately €4.8 billion to the economy and support around 44,000 full-time jobs. Minister Dillon is using the mission to promote Irish businesses, attract further investment and build relationships that can create new export and employment opportunities.

Minister Dillon said: “Ireland has built a very strong reputation in aviation and aerospace. This trade mission is an opportunity to promote Irish companies, secure new business and support further investment and high-quality jobs.”

The Minister said the meetings would also provide valuable insight into fast-developing technologies, including drones, electric aircraft and future air-mobility services. “Companies such as Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier and Archer Aviation are helping to shape the future of air travel. It is important that Ireland engages directly with these global leaders and positions our businesses to benefit from the opportunities ahead.”

Minister Dillon will also use the mission to better understand how these emerging sectors could support the future development of the Strategic Development Zone at Ireland West Airport Knock.

Minister Dillon added: “Ireland West Airport Knock and its Strategic Development Zone have real long-term potential. I am committed to supporting its development, and these international engagements will help us explore how aerospace, aviation and new technologies could form part of that future, bringing investment and jobs to Mayo and the wider west of Ireland.”