The Aerospace Industry in Scotland: Past, Present and Future

Scotland has a proud engineering legacy that reaches back through the centuries, and its continuing success is evident in the growing Scottish aerospace industry. Twenty-two million passengers passed through Scotland's four major airports in 2005, and with an annual turnover of £2.1 billion, the industry is still on the rise as a major sector of employment.

With Scottish aerospace accounting for 10% of the UK's industry, the country is also home to some of the largest and fastest growing airports in the British Isles, as well as boasting success in other areas, with the world's busiest heliport at Aberdeen Airport having been vital for the oil industry.

Ever since the Wright brothers made their pivotal flight and modern aviation was born, Scotland has been involved every step of the way. The nation began manufacturing and servicing aircraft as early as 1915 and has been vital in major industry successes ever since, including developing jet fuel systems and helping Concorde break the sound barrier.

The success of Scottish aerospace today is clearly evident in how the industry weathered the global recession, continuing to attract investment from some of the world's largest companies and with Scotland's universities producing a high number of engineering and aeronautical workers with specialised skills.

Continuing research and development has also given Scotland a foothold in space exploration, with the country being a world-leading manufacturer of space thermal batteries and a NASA observatory at the University of Dundee tracking spacecraft in orbit. Many American astronauts may also owe some of their ambition to their Scottish heritage, including John Glen and Apollo 11 astronaut Edwin 'Buzz' Aldrin, among others.

The future of the industry is looking similarly bright, with continuing development and education programmes ensuring that the next generation of aerospace workers will continue to push the boundaries of the industry. Rising passenger numbers could also see upwards of 35 million people passing through Scotland's airports by 2013, even by conservative estimates, as Edinburgh Airport continues to expand and Prestwick strengthens its position as a centre of excellence for aircraft repairs.

Scotland is celebrated worldwide for its excellent infrastructure and purpose-built aerospace facilities, such as Prestwick International Aerospace Park, while it geographical location is also a major bonus, being situated within easy reach of 80% of Europe's jet fleet. These features, among others, will help ensure Scotland's continuing success as a major centre of aviation in the 21st century.

Adam Singleton writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.