Plaid Cymru Shadow Minister for Economy and Finance Rhun ap Iorwerth AM has expressed his disappointment following Airbus’s announcement of their decision to cease production of the double-decked A380 in 2021.

Part of the construction of the A380 takes place at the company’s site in Broughton, which has raised concerns regarding potential job losses, however Airbus says it hopes to keep potential job losses to a minimum.

Following the announcement, Mr ap Iorwerth said:

“I was disappointed to learn today of Airbus’s decision to cease production of the double-decked A380 in 2021. She is a beautiful aircraft that I’ve been lucky enough to fly on, and I’m proud of Wales’ role in its creation.

“The decision follows a reduction in the order book of the largest A380 customer, Emirates, who will instead focus on using other aircraft in the Airbus fleet.

“I note Airbus’s hopes that it will be able to keep job losses to a minimum, but there will inevitably be concerns at Broughton where the wings are made.

“I will be seeking further clarity from Welsh Government about the implications of this announcement in the short and medium term. I am pleased, however, that Airbus does not expect there to be an impact on its plans for apprentice recruitment.”