A new aerospace headquarters that will help allocate £2 billion of funding to research and technology projects across the UK has opened.

Business Minister Michael Fallon hailed the groundbreaking initiative at the official opening of the headquarters of the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) in Cranfield, Bedfordshire.

The creation of the ATI was a major commitment in the Government’s Industrial Strategy, established to keep the UK at the forefront of the global aerospace sector. The new institute will oversee the UK’s technology strategy for the next generation of quieter, more energy-efficient aircraft.

Gary Elliott, former CEO of Hybrid Air Vehicles, has been appointed Chief Executive of the ATI.

Michael Fallon also visited the Aircraft Research Association (ARA) in Bedford. ARA is to benefit from £2 million of ATI funding to enhance its capability to carry out wind tunnel research and testing. This work could lead to increased passenger comfort and less noise due to the lower impact of turbulence.

ARA’s wind tunnels will enable aerospace companies to conduct advanced research in the early stages of the development of new aircraft and helicopters.

Business Minister Michael Fallon said:

“The UK has the number one aerospace industry in Europe. I want to make sure we keep it that way.

“This HQ at Cranfield is one of many new projects supported by Aerospace Technology Institute funding. By supporting partnerships between companies and universities across the UK, we are building the high-grade skills and technologies that will drive sustained growth.”