EXCLUSIVE: John Healey could help create the ‘next generation’ of air travel and deliver cheaper fares, cleaner aircraft and more accessible travel for the public, the industry claims
The aviation industry say investment now could help slash fares(Image: Ceri Breeze via Getty Images)
Boosting British plane manufacturing in the budget could help slash flight fares for holidaymakers, the Chancellor has been told.
Trade body ADS urged John Healey to help create the “next generation” of air travel, claiming it can deliver cheaper fares, cleaner aircraft and more accessible travel.
The group, which represents 1,100 companies across the Aerospace, Defence, Security, and Space industries, said the sector already supports more than 113,000 jobs and generates £41.5 billion in annual turnover, but that this could soar even higher if the Government backs the industry.
In their submission to the Government ahead of Mr Healey’s first Budget as Chancellor, they say investing now would help attract investment into UK factories and create jobs.
Kevin Craven, Chief Executive of ADS, the trade association for the UK’s aerospace, defence, security and space sectors, representing more than 2,000 member companies, claimed it was a “pivotal moment”
He said: “Decisions on where the next generation of commercial aircraft will be designed and built are being taken now, and the UK must demonstrate it is one of the most attractive places in the world to invest and grow.
“These aircraft are expected to be 20-30% more fuel efficient, helping to reduce emissions, lower costs and make air travel more affordable for passengers. This represents a generational opportunity for the UK economy, supporting high-value jobs, investment and growth across the country.
“There is enormous opportunity to grow our sector but also high levels of risk to our current share of this global market place. We now need to see the Government back its ambition and give industry the confidence to invest.”
The calls were backed by MPs from the APPG for the Future of Aviation, Travel and Aerospace, who urged the Chancellor to back British business and help create the jobs of the future.
Luke Taylor MP, Chair of the APPG said: “Our world leading aerospace industry is a key driver of economic growth and the Chancellor must use the upcoming Budget to back British aerospace with long term support for innovation and create a business environment that delivers investment.
“By working with industry to secure UK work on the next generation of single-aisle aircraft, from airframe structures to systems, power plant, undercarriage and advanced composites, the Government can deliver skilled jobs, investment and opportunities for businesses across the supply chain, as well as delivering more fuel-efficient aircraft, cleaner and quieter journeys, lower running costs and lower costs for consumers.
“But that work will not come to Britain by default. We need a Budget that backs British businesses and supports them to build manufacture and deliver here.”
A government spokesperson said: “This Government is leading a new age of British industrialisation, backing British businesses and British workers with the investment, skills and support needed to grow the industries of the future.
“Alongside action to reduce energy costs for manufacturers, we are creating more apprenticeship opportunities, helping more young people into work and ensuring businesses can access the skilled workforce they need to grow.
“As has always been the case, the Chancellor will set out the Government’s plans at the Budget and we will not comment on speculation or proposals ahead of then.”
