Airshow provides platform for FAC to strengthen old ties with American and Polish counterparts

Farnborough Aerospace Consortium (FAC) has met with its counterparts in both the US and Poland during Farnborough International Airshow this week.

The group had previously signed a memorandum of understanding back in 2022 with the Ohio Aerospace Institute (OAI), who were once again present at this year’s airshow.

Since then, two FAC members – Block Digital and Blue Abyss – have set up offices in Ohio, while an Ohio-based business – Jergens Inc. – is currently looking to establish a base in Farnborough.

Alan Fisher, CEO of FAC, said: “Both FAC and OAI are similar bodies and we both felt we could advance each other’s causes by bringing our members closer together.

“There’s been growing collaboration between our memberships, and we’re now seeing businesses set down roots in each other’s countries.

“This really displays the value of the Farnborough Airshow and how it can benefit all types of businesses – from multinationals to SMEs.”

FAC also signed a memorandum in 2022 with its Polish counterparts at the Aviation Valley Cluster.

A large delegation from Poland attended a reception at FAC’s show stand, including the country’s deputy ambassador Bartosz Wisniewski.

“The Polish aviation industry spans well over 80 years of scientific and engineering work, centred in Poland’s southeast regions,” he said.

“Cities like Swidnik and Mielec are the cradles of Polish aviation and innovation.

“Last year, the Polish Aviation Valley Cluster, with Rzeszow as its centre, celebrated 20 years since its inception.

“Creating a positive image of the sector, which is notorious for its carbon footprint, is perhaps the most immediate task.

“Down the road, issues of competitiveness are likely to gain prominence. In this context, the UK can serve as an example of a country which has set very ambitious goals.

“And so, Polish companies which are already deeply involved in the global supply chains for the aviation sector will need to adapt.”

He also said he was pleased that FAC and its members were developing closer ties with the aerospace industry in Poland.

Graham Chisnall, chairman of FAC, added: “We’re planning a mission to Poland in October to build on the memorandum we signed in 2022.

“The events of the last two years have only enhanced the reasons to seek mutual co-operation.”

• fac.org.uk

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