Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide

Aerospace

Andy Schofield appointed NWAA Chair

Professor Andy Schofield has been announced as the new Chair of the North West Aerospace Alliance (NWAA).

Image BAE Systems

The North West Aerospace Alliance (NWAA) unites companies and organisations from across regional aerospace sector supply chains and seeks to drive forward innovation for products and services through its support programmes for local supply chain businesses.

Comprising of over 220 member companies the NWAA represents around 25% of the UK aerospace industry, contributing around £7 billion to the UK economy, which makes the North West region the largest air sector industry cluster in Europe.
 
As a Director of Programme Technology Integration at BAE Systems, Professor Andy Schofield (above) brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience, including over forty years engineering experience in the Aerospace Industry and involvement in a number of Advisory Groups in the UK.

Advertisement
Leonardo animated rectangle

Of his appointment Andy said: “I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to take up the position as Chair of this influential and forward thinking organisation.
 
“The work the Alliance does in supporting its members has a significant impact on the success and prominence of our region as an industrial force in the UK’s aerospace sector.
 
“Here in the North West we have a strong industrial heritage that we are keen to see grow well into the future; ensuring that as a region we remain at the forefront of aerospace innovation and continue to produce the skilled workforce with the technical expertise required to succeed.
 
“I am looking forward to help drive the North West Aerospace Alliance forward and, hopefully uncover some fantastic innovation and talent along the way.”
 
Andy has taken over from the outgoing chair Neil McKay, who left at the end of 2021 after 25 years with the NWAA.
 
Speech marks Sharon McDonald, Chief Executive of the North West Aerospace Alliance said: “We at NWAA are delighted with Andy’s appointment and I personally very much look forward to working with him.
 
“Andy has the knowledge, experience and credentials required to take forward the excellent work of Neil McKay and lead NWAA into the future.”
 

 

Advertisement
ODU RT

 

Advertisement
Babcock LB Babcock LB
IATA reveals airlines constrained by aerospace supply chain bottlenecks

Aerospace

IATA reveals airlines constrained by aerospace supply chain bottlenecks

9 December 2025

In its recently released global outlook, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has updated its analysis of aerospace supply chain bottlenecks, noting that aircraft availability remains one of the most significant constraints on industry growth.

Aurrigo launches licensing and hub programme

Aerospace

Aurrigo launches licensing and hub programme

9 December 2025

Coventry based Aurrigo International has launched a new international licensing and hub programme designed to accelerate its global commercialisation strategy.

Raytheon engineer recognised for inspiring the next generation

Aerospace Events

Raytheon engineer recognised for inspiring the next generation

9 December 2025

Flying Officer Ali Bachar, an engineer at Harlow-based Raytheon UK, has been honoured for his outstanding commitment to STEM education and youth engagement at the Regional Commandant Awards held at RAF Northolt.

Airbus completes acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems

Aerospace

Airbus completes acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems' sites

8 December 2025

Airbus has closed the transaction with Spirit AeroSystems for the acquisition of industrial assets dedicated to its commercial aircraft programmes, including those providing wing components for the A320 and A350 in Prestwick, Scotland and for A220 wings and A220 mid-fuselage production in Belfast.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Scottish Airspace Modernisation consultation reaches halfway point

Aerospace

Scottish Airspace Modernisation consultation reaches halfway point

8 December 2025

The Scottish Airspace Modernisation consultation, which launched on 20th October, has reached its midpoint, with the Coordinated Airspace Change Proposals (ACPs) - led jointly by NATS, Edinburgh Airport and Glasgow Airport - giving communities, political representatives and other stakeholders the opportunity to share their views.

GKN Aerospace to expand additive manufacturing capabilities in Norway

Aerospace

GKN Aerospace to expand additive manufacturing capabilities in Norway

8 December 2025

GKN Aerospace Norway and Norwegian Catapult Manufacturing Technology in Kongsberg (Kongsberg Technology Cluster) have signed a strategic agreement to invest in and expand advanced additive manufacturing capabilities at GKN Aerospace’s engines facility in Kongsberg.

Advertisement
Leonardo animated rectangle