Airbus praises Spirit as it receives RTM spoilers

A320 spoilers are produced by Spirit AeroSystems using resin transfer moulding to increase efficiency, with a lower cost compared to the traditional process - a significant first in the UK.

Spirit AeroSystems Europe has delivered the first set of advanced composite spoilers for the A320 Airbus family. The spoilers are produced using Spirit's resin transfer moulding technology and are the first to feature on a flying aircraft.

The spoiler is produced using an automated manufacturing, out of autoclave process, resulting in an efficient and lower cost process compared to the traditional method. Spirit says it is the first to industrialise the composite technology in the UK aerospace sector.

Scott McLarty senior vice president of Airbus Programs says: "This exciting milestone is another example of Spirit's leadership in the development of innovative wing technologies and manufacturing processes to meet our customers' needs. We remain committed to investing in the new technologies and processes required to deliver a more sustainable aerospace industry and help meet the UK's net zero goals."

The spoilers are produced in Spirit's manufacturing facility in Prestwick, Scotland, using the latest automation and robotics, which included investment from the Scottish Government in the development of the technology. Spirit claims that cost-effective technologies and manufacturing processes will play a central role in the development of the next generation of aircraft programs.