A new aerospace communities alliance (ACA) has been launched in the UK that aims to provide a coordinated voice for the community to retain and grow the sector.

The ACA is a local authority-led body that will champion the UK aerospace industry which employs over 113,000 people and add value to existing industry lobbying and support structures by tackling the issues faced by the communities that it represents.

UK Minister for Business and Regulatory Reform Ian Lucas said that integration of the issues affecting the aerospace industry, and manufacturing in general, is vital in order to achieve future success in the sector.

“The creation of the ACA will help to achieve this,” he said.

The community alliance is being supported by Advantage West Midlands, a regional development agency for the West Midlands.

ACA is presently looking towards strengthening its links with key partners in the industry, continuing to engage MPs, and delivering specific campaigns on issues affecting the aerospace industry.

Industry partners for the alliance include Midlands Aerospace Alliance, SBAC, Rolls-Royce and Airbus UK.