January 01, 2013
In June 1938 the United Kingdom took delivery of North American ‘Harvard’ training aircraft. Soon after, trans-Atlantic flights began with Pan American using Boeing 314 flying boats to make the journey from Southampton to New York.
Today, in the 75th year of partnership, Boeing employs more than 1,300 people in the United Kingdom, spends an annual average of $1 billion with suppliers and research partners, and counts among its customers some of the world’s most significant airlines as well as the United Kingdom’s Ministry of Defence. Prior to last year’s Farnborough Airshow, Boeing published an in-depth look at the relationship between Boeing and the UK.
"Our 75th anniversary will give us a major opportunity to remind all our stakeholders of the long-term, lasting commitment that we share with the United Kingdom,” said Sir Roger Bone, President of Boeing UK. “2013 is a significant year for our relationship with the UK. We have a strong partnership with the Ministry of Defence here. Furthermore, the first Boeing 787 Dreamliner deliveries to UK airlines will start in early 2013. We will be celebrating the first 75 years of Boeing in the UK while looking ahead with our employees, suppliers and customers to further growth and commitment in the years ahead.”
Illustrating the collaboration between Boeing and UK suppliers, when fitted with Rolls-Royce engines, alongside significant contributions from other British suppliers, the 787 Dreamliner is 25% by value made by UK companies. Furthermore, the Schools Build a Plane Challenge partnership between Boeing in the UK and the Royal Aeronautical Society saw the first aircraft fly during early 2013.