Opening Remarks: A Rallying Call from Westminster

Alex Baker, MP for Aldershot and Farnborough, opened the conference with a keynote that resonated deeply with attendees. “FAC—your work is impressive, and vital,” she declared, praising the consortium as “the heartbeat of the aerospace and defence sectors in our region.” As a member of the Defence Committee and several parliamentary groups, Baker underscored Farnborough’s role as the birthplace of aviation and a hub for cutting-edge defence technologies like Dragonfire and Nexus.

She emphasized the importance of private sector agility, investment in R&D, and the UK’s strategic relationship with the US—citing the removal of tariffs on aerospace components as a tangible win. Baker encouraged businesses to raise concerns directly with her, promising to carry their voices into the upcoming Labour Party conference.

Industry Growth Potential

FAC Chairman Graham Chisnall welcomed delegates and introduced the first session, which focused on commercial aviation’s recovery and future trajectory. Clive Lewis of Achieving the Difference noted that while air traffic had surpassed pre-pandemic levels, profitability remained fragile—just $7.20 per passenger. He warned of rising costs, economic uncertainty, and emerging risks, while also highlighting opportunities in unmanned aircraft, hybrid VTOLs, and electric regional travel.

A confidential presentation under Chatham House Rule followed, offering insights into sensitive defence projects. Then Anne-Lise Scaillererz, CEO of ARPAS-UK, explored the evolving role of drones—currently 99% used for data capture, but increasingly trialled for cargo transport by the NHS and Royal Mail. A panel chaired by FAC board member Colin Basnett tackled supply chain challenges, including titanium sourcing and cyber-security.

Sustainability, Resilience, and Inclusion

Cathy Davis of BAE Systems kicked off the second session with a call to reframe sustainability in business terms. “Climate risk is a new kind of risk,” she said, urging the sector to balance competitiveness with consciousness.

Harvey Matthewson of Aerobility delivered a moving address on disability inclusion in aviation. A qualified pilot with cerebral palsy, he challenged the industry to unlock the potential of the 24% of UK citizens with disabilities. “If I can fly, what else can I do?” he asked, advocating for the Equal Skies Charter.

Elsa Hogan of Rolls-Royce spotlighted gender diversity, referencing the “35 by 35” initiative to reach 35% female representation in aerospace by 2035. With only 16.9% of engineering roles currently held by women, she called for action to tap into this underutilized talent pool.

A panel led by Sarah Barnard of ADS explored global sustainability disparities, legislative hurdles, and the sector’s image problem—particularly among environmentally conscious youth.

Supply Chain and SME Advocacy

Andrew Kinniburgh of Make UK Defence opened the final session with a passionate plea for SME support. With half of defence budgets going to major primes, he urged for reinvestment into UK supply chains and cultural change within the MoD. “Network, network, network,” he advised delegates.

Stephen Cowan of GKN addressed supply chain resilience, warning that most suppliers aren’t ready to scale. He called for greater transparency across tiers and highlighted an upcoming AGP report on the topic.

Harriet Wollerton of ADS introduced the more accessible SC21 programme and a new cyber-security toolkit, while Nathan Nash of FAC shared strategies to boost supply chain competitiveness. A closing panel chaired by Sophie Lane of ATI discussed youth engagement and unmanned aircraft innovation.

Closing Reflections

FAC CEO Alan Fisher concluded the day by celebrating the diversity of voices and perspectives represented. He expressed pride in the session dedicated to sustainability and inclusion, and welcomed Alex Baker MP’s commitment to making the region a centre of excellence.



With robust discussions, strategic insights, and heartfelt advocacy, FAC Conference 2025 reaffirmed Farnborough’s role as a global leader in aerospace innovation—and a community determined to shape a resilient, inclusive future.

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Alex Baker, Member of Parliament for Aldershot