Airbus has started construction on an extension of its Belfast facility, the only site within the European manufacturer’s global production network where wings for the A220 family are manufactured. The investment is expected to provide additional capacity needed for the planned increase in production of the aircraft to 13 units per month by 2028.

According to Aviation Week, the existing production facility will be expanded by 6,221 square metres, with the works forming part of Airbus’ broader investment programme at the Northern Ireland site.

The extension is scheduled for completion during the first half of 2028. It will provide Airbus with additional space for wing production while also increasing its capabilities for the manufacture and processing of advanced composite structures.

A third autoclave will be installed in the new section of the facility, alongside specialised wing manufacturing tooling and equipment for handling large components. An autoclave is a large pressurised chamber used in the production of composite aircraft components. During the manufacturing process, components are exposed to controlled elevated temperatures and pressure, allowing the composite material to cure properly and achieve the required mechanical properties.

“Enhancing our wing facilities is a direct investment in the future of A220 wing production here in Belfast, building the capacity required to meet the growing demand for this aircraft,” said Anthony Rouse, head of the Airbus Belfast plant and site.

The investment is not limited to expanding production capacity. Airbus is also continuing to modernise infrastructure across the site, including a new security gate entrance, high-voltage electrical substations, a new office building, an expanded 650-space car park and the introduction of new IT systems.

According to Aviation Week, the manufacturer is simultaneously investing in workforce development. A further 40 new apprentices are expected to join the Airbus team in Belfast in September.

“This commitment is also reflected in our ongoing skills development, including bringing onboard 40 new apprentices who will start in September this year,” Rouse said.

Belfast plays a particularly important role in the A220 programme as it is the only Airbus site worldwide where wings for the aircraft are manufactured.

The expansion forms part of preparations for higher A220 production rates. Airbus intends to reach a production rate of 13 aircraft per month by 2028, requiring additional investment in manufacturing capacity throughout the programme’s supply chain.

During the first six months of 2026, Airbus delivered a total of 351 commercial aircraft, including 44 A220s.