Airbus expands Broughton site for A321 wing production

Airbus is advancing its global industrial strategy by converting its former A380 wing production facility in Broughton, UK, into an A321 production line.

The conversion is expected to be completed by the end of the year, helping the company prepare its ‘Home of Wings’ facility to meet future aircraft production targets.

The expansion represents a significant boost to the UK aerospace industry’s manufacturing capabilities. Once completed, the facility will house six wing production jigs, an equipping line and a paint shop, all designed to support production of the A320 Family backlog of around 7,500 aircraft, with A321s accounting for approximately 75% of the total.

Across the Broughton site, Airbus has created around 480 new high-value jobs in 2026, including 250 positions in the refurbished factory. These roles add to the site’s workforce of around 6,000 employees, highlighting Airbus’ long-term commitment to Wales and strengthening the UK’s position as a key hub for the global aerospace industry.

At the centre of the investment is a new advanced manufacturing environment, developed with direct input from operators across the site. Employees contributed to the design of the ergonomics and integration of technology, helping shape the new industrial system.

“We aren't just talking about a ramp-up; we’re putting the infrastructure in place to support it. Around the world today, an A320 Family aircraft takes off or lands every two seconds, with wings designed and built in the UK. Investing in our capacity strengthens our industrial footprint, creates high value jobs that support the wider UK aerospace sector and ensures we remain competitive in the years to come,” said Jerome Blandin, Head of Airbus Wing. “This investment is important for jobs, important for the region and important for our global ramp up towards rate 75.”

Production of the first wing is already underway, with all jigs expected to be operational by the end of the year.

The latest investment follows Airbus’ recently announced multi-million-pound investment in its Belfast facility. The project will expand the site’s wing manufacturing footprint and advanced composite capabilities to support the ramp-up of A220 production.