Flight path

The south-west has a 100-year history in the aerospace industry. Research into lightweight materials, UAVs and another regional strength — the microelectronics industry of the M4 corridor — could be key to maintaining its future recognition on a global scale.

The area accounts for 27 per cent of all aerospace jobs in the UK, with 43,000 employed directly in the industry, which is in turn supported by a chain of 800 suppliers and specialist manufacturers. Of the top 13 aerospace firms with a presence here, 11 are in the south-west.

Mike Franks, senior adviser for the aerospace industry at the

(SWRDA), said the background of aerospace in the region is a key attraction to business.

'

has a site at Filton, and we have

,

,

, and

— so you get an impression of the number of companies that have a huge presence in this area,' he said.

'Many companies want to be a step on the supply chain and be next door to a large prime. We also have the MoD at Filton which does much of the purchasing for themilitary side of aerospace.'