GKN Aerospace Delivers Full Composite Wing Assembly and Booms for Supernal’s eVTOL Full-scale Technology Demonstrator Aircraft

Farnborough — July 22, 2024

• Milestone achievement in the development of Supernal's eVTOL test program
• Key deliveries include the complete composite wing assembly in June and booms anticipated by end of month July

GKN Aerospace has successfully delivered the full composite wing assembly and by end of July will deliver booms for Supernal’s first electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) demonstrator aircraft. The Full-scale Technology Demonstrator (FSTD) will begin flying later this year. These critical components mark a significant milestone in the development of Supernal’s eVTOL vehicle that will enter into commercial service in 2028.

The composite wing assembly and booms are manufactured and supplied by GKN Aerospace’s sites in Bristol and Cowes, UK. These components are integral to the FSTD's structural integrity and performance, underscoring GKN Aerospace's role as a key partner in the eVTOL project. This delivery follows preliminary agreements initiated in 2022 and 2023, further cementing the collaboration between Supernal and GKN Aerospace.

John Pritchard, President Civil Airframe, said: “We are excited to support Supernal’s multi-year eVTOL testing program. Electric aircraft will play a key role in the transition to zero-emissions flight. Delivering these vital aerostructures is a testament to our wealth of experience in the design and high-rate manufacturing of aerostructures. We are proud to be a part of Supernal’s journey in bringing innovative eVTOL solutions to market."

In parallel to its FSTD program, Supernal unveiled its eVTOL vehicle product concept, S-A2, in January and is displaying the full-scale mock-up in the company’s Farnborough Airshow chalet (A025). S-A2, which will meet commercial aviation safety standards, will become a widespread transportation option that helps urban residents travel from point A to point B faster.

GKN Aerospace continues to support Supernal’s vehicle development, leveraging its expertise in advanced aerostructures and materials. This collaboration will help lay the foundation for scaled manufacturing and the integration of innovative technologies to meet the evolving demands of the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) industry.

”Acceptance of the composite wing assembly and booms from GKN Aerospace is an important step in readying Supernal’s Full-scale Technology Demonstrator for flight by the end of 2024,” said Jaiwon Shin, president of Hyundai Motor Group and CEO of Supernal. “Learnings from this aircraft will benefit concurrent S-A2 prototyping so we can begin delivering aircraft to operators in 2028 that meet mission requirements and are certified to commercial aviation safety standards.”

GKN Aerospace is a global multi-technology leader in the aerospace industry, specialising in the development and delivery of cutting-edge aerostructures and engine systems. Our unrivaled products, systems, and services are integral to 90% of today's commercial and defence aircraft ranging from helicopters, business jets, passenger planes and advanced air mobility vehicles to state-of-the-art fighter aircraft.

Our commitment to innovation and cutting edge technology is evident in the application of lightweight composites, additive fabrication, electrical wiring interconnection systems, and groundbreaking engine systems, reducing both weight and cost in today’s aircraft and engines. GKN Aerospace is at the forefront of sustainable technology, developing breakthrough solutions to achieve emission-free flight. Our global technology centres collaborate with industry partners around the world to accelerate the development of pioneering technologies, including hydrogen-powered propulsion and all-electric flight.

Operating in 12 countries, GKN Aerospace employs a workforce of 16,000 employees across 31 locations. GKN Aerospace has global sales of £3.4bn and is listed under its parent company name Melrose Industries PLC (LSE:MRO).

For further information on this release, please contact:

Marianne Mulder, Digital Communications and Media Manager, GKN Aerospace

Mobile: +31 6 51311217

Email: marianne.mulder@fokker.com