Shaun Rowley, Managing Director of ANT Industries, observes the current boom in the global aerospace industry with both excitement and a deep understanding of its implications. From his vantage point in Atherstone, Warwickshire, where ANT Industries produces critical components for aero engines and gas turbines, Rowley sees the recent surge in aircraft orders as a defining moment for the industry.The Cathay Group’s recent announcement to purchase 30 Airbus A330-900 widebody aircraft, with options for an additional 30, is a prime example of this trend. This significant order, aimed at modernising Cathay’s fleet with more fuel-efficient and sustainable aircraft, is emblematic of a broader shift within the industry. “We’re witnessing a pivotal moment where airlines around the world are not just expanding, but strategically investing in the future of aviation,” Rowley notes. “This isn’t just about growth—it’s about building a more sustainable and efficient fleet for the decades to come.”
Rowley highlights that these developments are having a tangible impact on suppliers like ANT Industries. As the demand for advanced aircraft grows, so too does the need for high-quality components that meet the stringent standards of modern aerospace engineering. “The aerospace sector’s resurgence is driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible,” Rowley says. “At ANT Industries, we’re seeing firsthand how this demand is influencing our production processes and the kinds of components we’re developing.”
The A330-900, equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, represents the cutting edge of this industry evolution. These engines are not only designed for improved fuel efficiency but also to operate with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Rowley sees this as a significant step forward: “The integration of SAF and the emphasis on sustainability in these new aircraft reflect a broader commitment within the aerospace industry to meet environmental challenges head-on. It’s a direction that’s shaping the work we do every day.”
At ANT Industries, the impact of such orders is clear. The company’s record order book for 2024 is a direct result of this global uptick in aircraft production. As airlines like Cathay Pacific modernise their fleets, the demand for precision-engineered components is surging. “This isn’t just about keeping up with orders; it’s about pushing the envelope in terms of quality and innovation,” Rowley emphasises. “We’re not only meeting the current demand but also preparing for the future needs of an industry that’s rapidly evolving.”
The Cathay Group’s fleet renewal, with the A330-900 designed for high-capacity regional routes and longer-range destinations, illustrates how airlines are prioritising versatility and sustainability. For ANT Industries, this means staying ahead of the curve, ensuring that the components they produce not only meet today’s requirements but also anticipate the technological advancements of tomorrow.
Looking forward, Rowley is optimistic about the future of both the aerospace industry and ANT Industries’ role within it. “The global aerospace boom is more than just an increase in orders; it’s a transformation of the entire industry,” he observes. “At ANT Industries, we’re proud to be part of this journey, contributing to the development of aircraft that are not only more efficient but also more sustainable.”
As the global aerospace industry continues to expand, with major airlines investing in next-generation aircraft, Rowley and his team at ANT Industries are focused on ensuring that they remain at the forefront of this dynamic field. Their work, aligned with the industry’s shift towards innovation and sustainability, reflects the broader trends shaping the future of aviation.