Invest NI statement re the acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems

Responding to the announcement by Spirit Aerosystems that it has entered into a definitive merger agreement with The Boeing Company, Invest NI said:

“Following this morning’s announcements, Invest NI is committed to supporting Spirit AeroSystems in seeking the best outcome for Northern Ireland and the workforce based here. We have already been collaborating closely with the company to explore all avenues for sustaining its Northern Ireland operations and employment.

“We recognise the uncertainty today’s news brings to the staff of Spirit AeroSystems and acknowledge the impact it may have on many individuals and families. As a cornerstone of Northern Ireland's aerospace sector, this agreement with Airbus will ensure it maintains its intellectual capability, skills, and manufacturing capacity, allowing it to focus on solutions to the Net Zero challenge for aviation.

“Spirit AeroSystems’ Northern Ireland operation offers an engineering centre of excellence with a highly skilled, adaptable workforce. Invest NI will support the company to promote this overseas and it has our full support as it navigates this next phase.”