Thompson Aero Seating has opened a dynamic Test Facility in Banbridge, Northern Ireland. Marking a new era of innovation in the aircraft seating industry across Ireland and Great Britain, the prestigious event commenced with the unveiling of a plaque by Jayne Brady, Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service.

READ: Thompson Aero Seating to build world-class dynamic test facility

Part of the new Thompson Engineering Centre, the Dynamic Test Facility itself represents an investment of over £7.5 million. The facility will give Thompson enhanced capability to certify new products for airworthiness at its own premises (testing that until now has had to be carried out in the US or Europe) and to carry out research and development work.

Keith Anderson, CEO, Thompson Aero Seating, said: “We are delighted that our new Dynamic Test Facility is officially open and operating. The significance of this new state-of-the-art facility cannot be over emphasised in terms of the opportunities it provides. Our orderbook is very strong and the growth trajectory we have over the coming years will be underpinned and supported by our new in-house capability. We are very grateful to [Head of Northern Ireland Civil Service] Jayne Brady, an engineer at heart, for taking time out of her busy schedule to attend the opening as our esteemed guest and speaker.”