AERALIS has signed an agreement with the GMB Union to work collaboratively on the creation of high-quality, sustainable jobs in Central Ayrshire.

The agreement, signed by Robin Southwell, Chairman of AERALIS, and Gary Smith, General Secretary of the GMB, marks a significant step forward in ensuring that the economic and employment benefits of the AERALIS programme are fully realised in Scotland and across the wider United Kingdom. With plans to create over 4,000 highly skilled jobs nationwide, AERALIS is committed to establishing a major industrial hub in Central Ayrshire, home to 50% of Scotland’s aerospace workforce.

Robin Southwell, Chairman of AERALIS, said:
“The choice faced by the Government is clear; select a British designed and built aircraft offering long-term careers, skills development, and opportunities for future generations here in the UK, or to use public funds to import from abroad.”

“This agreement between AERALIS and the GMB reflects our shared commitment to building a sustainable, high-value aerospace industry in Scotland. Overnight we will create, in partnership with GMB, one of the top three industrial enterprises in the region and by working closely together, we can ensure that the jobs we create will provide apprenticeships, well paid careers and new opportunities right here at home.”

In September, AERALIS formalised its commitment to the region by signing a Strategic Agreement with Glasgow Prestwick Airport, expected to bring significant employment opportunities. This new partnership with the GMB will help ensure that this workforce is well-supported, equipped with the right skills, and prepared to meet the demands of a new chapter in British aerospace manufacturing.

Gary Smith, General Secretary of the GMB Union, said: “Selecting AERALIS would represent a major moment for Scotland’s industrial future, bringing back complete aircraft production to Scotland for the first time in 25 years. GMB is committed to ensuring that workers in Central Ayrshire and beyond are at the heart of this exciting new chapter for UK aerospace.”

The AERALIS programme is set to become Scotland’s largest aerospace export initiative, with the potential to generate up to £600 million in annual exports, placing it in the top three Scottish industrial exporters. It also positions Scotland to produce the next generation of aircraft for the Red Arrows, reinforcing the nation’s reputation for engineering excellence and contributing to its proud aviation legacy.

This agreement with GMB underscores AERALIS’s commitment to sustainable jobs, regional development, and the re-establishment of sovereign aerospace capability in the UK.

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