The Farnborough Aerospace Consortium (FAC) Annual Conference

The Farnborough Aerospace Consortium (FAC) is gearing up for its highly anticipated annual conference, featuring prominent industry leaders and a diverse range of topics. This year’s event, titled “Space, Defense, and Civil Aerospace – Opportunities, Competitiveness, and Growth,” promises to be an enlightening and inclusive gathering for all aerospace enthusiasts. The conference is scheduled for September 28th and will be held at the historic Brooklands Museum in Weybridge, Surrey, offering attendees the chance to explore its captivating exhibits.

Distinguished Speakers

Among the distinguished speakers at the FAC annual conference is Sir Michael Ryan CBE, Vice President and General Manager of Spirit AeroSystems, Belfast, and the Industry Chair of the Aerospace Growth Partnership (APG). Sir Michael’s expertise and insights will undoubtedly be a highlight of the event. Joining him on the roster of speakers are industry luminaries such as Jon Hulks, Space Ecosystem Development Manager at the UK Space Agency; Neil McManus, Managing Director of Marshall Aerospace; and Sue Elliott, Senior Manager UK Network at the British Business Bank. These speakers, along with a dozen others, will share their knowledge and perspectives on critical aerospace topics.

Engaging Sessions and Networking Opportunities

The FAC annual conference is more than just a lineup of notable speakers. It offers a dynamic agenda with engaging Q&A sessions and ample networking opportunities. Attendees can interact with industry experts, ask questions, and forge valuable connections within the aerospace community. The conference is designed to facilitate meaningful discussions and collaborations that drive progress in the sector.

Expanding Horizons in Aerospace

Alan Fisher, Chief Executive Officer of FAC, expresses the organization’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of aerospace exploration and innovation. This year, the conference extends its focus to space travel and exploration—a rapidly growing area in the region. Robert Elliot from Surrey Satellites and Colin Baldwin, Head of Policy at UK Space, will share their insights into this exciting field. The conference’s broader theme of opportunities, competitiveness, and growth reflects the multifaceted nature of the aerospace sector, which significantly contributes to the UK economy and impacts various industries.

Fostering Innovation and Collaboration

The FAC annual conference has established itself as a pivotal event in the aerospace calendar, drawing a large and diverse audience of delegates. Over the years, the conference has played a pivotal role in catalyzing business activities within the region, reaffirming its status as a hub for the country’s aerospace sector. As the aerospace industry continues to evolve, innovation and collaboration are paramount. The conference serves as a platform for sharing groundbreaking ideas and strategies, ensuring that the region and the entire nation remain global leaders in aerospace.

Looking to the Future

Reflecting on past themes like net-zero and clean fuels, this year’s conference underscores the industry’s unwavering commitment to sustainability. While acknowledging the aerospace sector’s occasional criticism, it is essential to recognize its immense economic contributions and its role in driving innovation that benefits numerous other industries and sectors. The FAC eagerly anticipates welcoming delegates to this year’s conference, and additional information can be found on its website, promising an event that will shape the future of aerospace in the region and beyond.