AEROSPACE companies in East Lancashire are aiming to land orders from a multi-billion industry this week.

Eight firms are exhibiting under the Consortium of Lancashire Aerospace's banner which is making its debut at Helitech 97, a shop window for the world's helicopter industry.

The Consortium believes the market is a potential source of new business for many of its 130-strong member list. "The county has traditionally been associated with the production of fixed wing aircraft of all types," said CLA chief executive Mike Clifford.

"The area's high precision engineering base, together with its wealth of experience in design and development work mean that there is significant scope to transfer know-how to this major sector of the market."

The event near Gatwick Airport expects to attract more than 400 companies from 20 countries.

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