Aerospace

Delivering certificated engineering and manufacturing solutions for aerospace organisations worldwide

market leading engineering and manufacturing

AFD Systems is a market leader in the aerospace sector and delivers advanced engineering and manufacturing solutions that support the world’s leading aerospace organisations

Many of our team have previous experience working in-house for leading aerospace organisations, and we have a proven track record of more than 600 successfully delivered engineering projects across a plethora of air, land and sea products. We provide trusted expertise across the full engineering lifecycle, from concept and certification to flightworthy manufacture.

Supporting the global aerospace community

AFD Systems collaborates with aircraft OEMs, Tier 1 and 2 suppliers and specialist design organisations to accelerate programme delivery, optimise performance and ensure full regulatory compliance.

Our in-depth sector expertise spans fixed-wing and helicopter platforms, UAVs, drones and emerging aerospace technologies.

AFD Systems provides turnkey support through:

Aerospace engineering you can trust

Our multi-disciplinary team includes subject matter experts in design, structures and polymer additive manufacturing, working collaboratively to deliver safe, certifiable and performance-optimised solutions. We bring together design, analysis and certification under one roof, a capability that enables faster delivery, reduced programme risk and assured compliance for our clients worldwide.

Our process and advantage

At AFD Systems, we take a digital-first, engineering-led approach to every aerospace project.

Our process integrates:

  • Advanced digital toolsets for modelling, simulation and validation
  • Agile collaboration between design, analysis and manufacturing teams
  • Proven quality control and secure data management systems

Our competitive advantage lies in the combination of our engineering expertise and certified manufacturing capability. We offer turnkey solutions that unify design, analysis and certification support, innovation in polymer additive technology for cabin interiors, radomes and tooling, and reliability backed by secure systems and security-cleared personnel.

Our approach enables our clients to operate with confidence in the most demanding aerospace environments.

About AFD Systems

AFD Systems is a market-leading advanced engineering and manufacturing business, trusted by global aerospace and UK defence organisations.

With over 600 successfully completed engineering projects across 70 fixed-wing and rotary platforms, UAVs, drones and land systems, AFD delivers robust and technically-advanced solutions that drive the industry forward.

Headquartered in cutting-edge engineering facilities in North West England, AFD Systems is committed to engineering excellence, continuous improvement and a purpose to address complex challenges that contribute to a safer, more secure world.

Why choose AFD Systems?

AFD Systems acts as a seamless extension of client teams, combining advanced digital manufacturing technologies with deep engineering insight to accelerate project outcomes. Clients choose AFD Systems for:

  • Agile and efficient delivery
  • Reliable, trusted collaboration
  • High-quality, repeatable output
  • On-time, on-budget performance

our approach

Our approach is guided by a consistent set of values that ensures every project aligns with our clients’ mission goals:

  • CUSTOMER-CENTRIC | From beginning to end
  • INTEGRITY | In all that we do
  • INNOVATION | To remain in front
  • ONE TEAM | Making us stronger together

Standards and accreditations

AFD Systems is fully accredited and certified to deliver additive manufacturing solutions across a range of tightly controlled sectors. Our operations adhere to the following standards:

Related Case Studies

“AFD was able to bring extensive experience in composite design and structural testing to a complex programme. During the test campaign, the AFD CVE/Witness diligently carried out their duty to ensure test article conformity, and to execute the test in accordance with the Test Plan intent. Post‐test, AFD was able to process the results and deliver the required documents without delay, enabling GVH to receive the Supplemental Type Certificate in a timely manner.”

Jaco Loubser - Programme Director, Nova Systems

“AFD gave excellent service in all areas. When they joined the team the means of compliance for the structural airworthiness requirements were being re‐negotiated internationally. AFD quickly rationalised the HEC requirements and proposed a clear strategy for the strength substantiation and compliance demonstration, convincing EASA specialists in the process.”

Leon Winnert - DO Project Manager, AeroDAC

“AFD provided structural specialists with experience in the application of the empirical formula for the assessment of bird impact forces. Extensive dialogue between AFD, Cobham, STC21, and the authorities (EASA and FAA) resulted in agreement on the Certification Plan and proposed Means of Compliance, leading to a successful STC application.”

Alastair Erskine - Head of Structures, STC21

Trusted by organisations across the world