Farnborough Aerospace Consortium (FAC) believes space is the next frontier for many of its members – and attended the Farnborough International Space Show. It shared it’s stand with Aerobility, a charity which transforms lives by enabling individuals with disabilities to experience the magic and wonder of flight.

It provides educational programmes, scholarships, support for careers in aviation, and immersive flight experiences in modified light aircraft. Building on this foundation, the organisation now seeks to expand its reach into space.

The space sector is growing and companies in aviation, aerospace, defence and their supply chains can all benefit. As Space X and other private businesses – as well as nation states - reach for the stars, the renewed orbital ambition globally will provide opportunities, according the FAC’s Alan Fisher.

The CEO of the influential trade body said that many of its members can adapt their research, technologies and products to be of use to those in the new ‘space race’. He said:

“For some years our members have been working in the space sector, with satellites and satellite technology for example. But in recent years we have seen huge investment globally into the space sector. As technology advances the cost of space exploration has come down and with many private businesses making the running, there are new opportunities."

“Our members are increasingly finding that their technologies and products are relevant to the space sector. The supply chain for the industry is enormous and the UK’s SMEs are versatile and innovative and are able to easily pivot to take advantage of the new landscape."

“It is our job at FAC to link our members with these opportunities and to help ensure the UK remains a leading country in this industry.”

Mike Miller-Smith MBE, CEO of Aerobility, said:

“Aerobility has been occupied in the aviation and aerospace industry for more than 30 years, giving people a chance to participate and even work in sector. It was a privilege to introduce Aerobility to the space community and hopefully we can encourage them to work with disabled people and participate in our research. It’s great to be side-by-side with FAC - it’s a really positive collaboration.”

Above Photo: Mike Miller-Smith MBE, CEO of Aerobility, and Alan Fisher, CEO of FAC