Airbus and Boeing have successfully concluded their acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems, a key player in Northern Ireland’s aerospace sector. This significant transaction involves the division of Spirit’s Belfast operation between the two rival aircraft manufacturers, impacting approximately 3,500 employees at the site.
Boeing will take the lead as the primary owner of the Belfast facility, while leasing a portion to Airbus. This arrangement allows Airbus to continue its production of components for its aircraft, specifically focusing on the A220 model. Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald expressed her support for the deal, noting that it underscores Northern Ireland’s position as a “global hub for aerospace innovation.”
With this acquisition, Boeing will integrate around 2,400 employees from Short Brothers into its existing workforce in the UK. The Belfast operation will be rebranded as Short Brothers, a Boeing Company, and will specialize in manufacturing business jets for various aerospace firms. Additionally, Boeing has acquired Spirit AeroSystems’ Aerospace Innovation Centre in Prestwick, Scotland, along with its 60 employees.
Ciara Kennedy, Vice President and General Manager of Short Brothers, remarked, “Boeing’s expansion of its UK footprint in Northern Ireland is a significant milestone for Short Brothers, our aerospace sector and the local economy.” She highlighted the company’s long-standing tradition of innovation and resilience.
In this arrangement, the remaining 1,550 employees will transition to Airbus, which has taken ownership of the A220 wings and mid-fuselage production, essential components of its supply chain. On the completion of the acquisition, Jerome Blandin, head of wing operations for Airbus commercial aircraft, stated that the company has “completed the acquisition of key work packages in Belfast and Prestwick.” He added that Airbus aims to create a “best-in-class environment” for its operations in Belfast, investing in facilities and staff to establish it as a center of excellence for the A220 wing.
The non-Airbus operations in Belfast have now transferred to Boeing, prompting responses from labor organizations. Sharon Graham, General Secretary of Unite, emphasized the need for job security and investment following the announcement, stating, “Today’s announcement must lead to commitments for jobs, investment and a secure future for aerospace in Northern Ireland.”
The deal was initially announced in July 2024 and finalized in April 2025. This acquisition marks a pivotal moment in the restructuring of Spirit AeroSystems, which was formed in 2005 when part of Boeing’s operations was spun off. Boeing initiated the breakup as part of its strategy to address manufacturing challenges and consolidate its operations.
Industry Minister Chris McDonald welcomed the news, describing it as positive for the workforce in both Belfast and Prestwick. He expressed optimism about the future, stating, “We look forward to continuing to work with Airbus and Boeing as they take forward these world-class sites and bring opportunities for innovation, growth, and jobs.”
As Airbus and Boeing carve up Spirit’s global operations, the shift represents a significant development in the aerospace industry, reinforcing the importance of Northern Ireland within this competitive sector.
