ASG Aerospace Welcomes Rolls-Royce Civil Aerospace Growth as Sector Recovery Accelerates

ASG Aerospace has praised Rolls-Royce’s latest trading update, calling it a clear sign that the civil aerospace recovery has finally arrived. Rolls-Royce reported an 8% jump in large engine flying hours, reaching 109% of 2019 levels in the ten months to October. The company also reaffirmed full-year guidance, expecting up to £3.2bn in operating profit and as much as £3.1bn in free cash flow.


For ASG Arrowsmith in Coventry, part of the prestigious  Rolls-Royce High Performing Supplier Group, the news delivers a boost for UK aerospace manufacturers.
“This is a sustained resurgence,” said Jason Aldridge, MD of ASG Arrowsmith. “Flying hours above pre-pandemic levels show that services and aftermarket demand are accelerating. We are feeling that momentum right through the supply chain.”

Rolls-Royce highlighted strong demand across its civil engine portfolio, including orders from IndiGo, Malaysia Airlines and Avolon. Interest in the Trent XWB-97 for the A350F continues to grow across Greater China and Asia-Pacific. Durability upgrades for the Trent 1000 and Trent 7000 remain on schedule. ASG Aerospace says its scale is helping customers manage ongoing supply chain pressure. The business operates over 180 CNC machine tools and has treatment facilities, providing resilience when production ramps.


“Scale matters more than ever,” said CEO Simon Weston. “We have built a robust UK aerospace supply chain platform. When programmes move faster or delivery becomes critical, we are ready to react.” Airbus recently recognised Rolls-Royce with its “Ramp Up and Operational Excellence” supplier award — the first time an engine manufacturer has received it. Weston says that kind of performance lifts confidence across the industry.


“Stronger OEM performance encourages investment. It supports recruitment, encourages capital spending and gives suppliers the visibility they need. Rolls-Royce’s numbers show that growth is back, and we are ready for what comes next.”

With flying hours rising, international travel strengthening and next-generation aircraft programmes moving forward, ASG Aerospace sees 2026 and beyond as a major opportunity for UK advanced manufacturing.