Aviation industry’s role in economy highlighted

It was highlighted by Guy Warner, aviation historian and author, during an address as guest speaker at Carrickfergus Rotary Club.

In his talk, Mr Warner traced the development of aircraft manufacturing in the province from the early pioneering initiatives of Joseph Cordner, Lilian Bland and a young Harry Ferguson through the twentieth century to the present day.

With a series of photographic illustrations featuring aircraft from military and civil backgrounds, Rotarians enjoyed a chronological look at how a successful aircraft and aerospace industry developed, survived and managed to thrive locally through periods of war and peace.

With Mr Warner’s extensive knowledge and comprehensive collection of illustrations, he covered fascinating research designs, jet and missile developments and successful transport and passenger aeroplanes.

He concluded by emphasising the importance of the research, development, technical and manufacturing skills of the Northern Ireland aviation industry workforce and their contribution to Bombardier Aerospace and the Northern Ireland economy.

On behalf of Sam Crowe, president and all the club members, Rotarian Colin de Fleury thanked Guy and congratulated him on an excellent presentation.