Leonardo has released a commemorative video to mark 80 years of helicopter manufacturing in Yeovil, celebrating the town's rich aviation heritage and its pivotal role in the aerospace industry. The video, launched on the company's social media platforms and official website, pays tribute to the skilled workforce, innovative designs, and groundbreaking technologies that have made Yeovil a key hub for helicopter production.
As part of #WorldHelicopterDay, we are celebrating the #HomeOFBritishHelicopters.#Yeovil has been developing helicopters for customers around the world for 8 decades and is home to the UK's only onshore end-to-end rotary wing manufacturer.
— Leonardo in the UK 🇬🇧 (@Leonardo_UK) August 18, 2024
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Celebrate 8 decades with the perfect pint at Yeovil's Butchers Arms.
Since the establishment of Westland Aircraft in 1944, Yeovil has been at the forefront of helicopter manufacturing, evolving into one of the UK's most important aerospace centers. The video highlights significant milestones in the factory's history, from the production of iconic helicopters like the Lynx and Sea King to the modern-day AW101 Merlin and AW159 Wildcat, which are still manufactured at the site.
The video also showcases the technological advancements that have been achieved over the decades, reflecting Leonardo’s commitment to innovation, safety, and performance. Interviews with long-serving employees and industry experts offer insights into the factory's evolution and its impact on both the local community and the global aerospace market.
Norman Bone, Managing Director of Leonardo in the UK, said in the video, "Yeovil has a proud legacy of excellence in helicopter manufacturing. Over the past 80 years, this site has produced some of the world’s most advanced helicopters, thanks to the dedication and expertise of our workforce. We are immensely proud of what has been achieved here and look forward to continuing this tradition of excellence."
The release of the video coincides with a series of events and activities planned to celebrate the anniversary throughout the year, including community engagement initiatives, exhibitions, and employee recognition programs. These celebrations not only honor the past but also look forward to the future of helicopter manufacturing in Yeovil, as Leonardo continues to invest in the site and its people.
Celebrate 8 decades with the perfect cocktail at Kazbar Yeovil
Leonardo’s Yeovil facility remains a cornerstone of the company’s global operations, playing a crucial role in the design, development, and production of cutting-edge helicopters for both military and civilian use. As the video emphasizes, the legacy of helicopter manufacturing in Yeovil is one of innovation, resilience, and enduring success.