- Innovations applied throughout manufacture and assembly of rear wing spar and trailing edge
GKN Aerospace has delivered the first element of the A350 XWB fixed trailing edge (FTE) assembly comprising the composite port side wing spar with integrated trailing edge ribs, to Airbus – UK. To enable successful transportation of this 27 meter long assembly it is transported from GKN Aerospace’s state of the art Western Approach production facility in Bristol, UK to Airbus at Broughton in three sections, the largest section being 13 meters long.
This landmark delivery represents the culmination of an intensive development and approval activity by GKN Aerospace engineers working closely with the Airbus team. This activity has introduced innovative manufacturing and assembly techniques at the Western Approach factory - enabling their introduction into A350 XWB production. These technologies are helping ensure the A350 XWB wing meets challenging requirements for manufacturing speed and consistency as well as demanding specifications for reducing aircraft weight, fuel consumption and emissions.
Phil Swash, CEO and President, GKN Aerospace – Aerostructures, Europe explains: “This phase of the programme has been extremely demanding and we would like to thank all our suppliers, partners and especially Airbus for their support in achieving this landmark delivery. Our work on the A350 XWB programme is just the latest step in a journey that has seen us become a major supplier of critical wing assemblies for both the A380 and for the A400M. In each case we have worked to introduce innovative and effective manufacturing solutions that enhance airframe performance. Our new facility takes us very much closer to meeting future demand for faster, more consistent manufacture of ever more reliable and environmentally friendly aircraft.”