Bombardier Aerospace in Belfast has said it is joining a research programme to help produce "green aircraft". It is one of 16 companies in the UK taking part in developing new wings.
The £103 million scheme is aimed at developing new composite wing technologies to reduce the environmental impact of new aircraft. Bombardier's involvement amounts to an investment of almost £9 million, which includes Government support from Invest Northern Ireland and the Technology Strategy Board. The company said it would be focussing on the design and manufacturing processes needed to produce a next generation composite wing, with the emphasis on reducing weight and aerodynamic drag.
Michael Ryan, General Manager of Bombardier said the firm takes its environmental responsibilities seriously. "Participation in this programme will help us to further enhance our skills and capabilities in the design and manufacture of large composite structures, particularly wings, thereby helping us to compete successfully in the international market place."
