Airframe Engineering

Structural integrity from concept to certification

Airframe Engineering

AFD Systems delivers advanced airframe engineering solutions that enable the design, modification and certification of advanced airframe structures across aerospace and defence platforms.

From concept through to certification and manufacture, we provide an agile, digital and end-to-end capabilities that help global customers optimise airframe structures, improve efficiency and ensure full regulatory compliance.

As a trusted partner to leading OEMs, primes and Tier 1 and 2 supply chains, our expertise supports both new development and retrofit programmes for civil aircraft, helicopters, drones and emerging autonomous or space platforms.

Airframe engineering expertise you can trust

With decades of experience in aerospace design and structural analysis, AFD Systems provides a full-spectrum airframe engineering service.

Our multi-disciplinary teams include structural design engineers, compliance verification engineers (CVEs) and material and stress specialists, working collaboratively to deliver safe, certifiable and high-performance structures.

Our capabilities include:

Airframe and structural design (CAD, FEA, CFD)
Design for manufacture and structural substantiation
Fatigue and damage tolerance (F&DT) and vibration analysis
Compliance demonstration and repair scheme development
Support for certification pathways for primary and secondary structures

Our approach ensures every solution is optimised for manufacturability, performance and lifecycle integrity.

Our process and methodology

We combine engineering excellence with digital innovation to accelerate project outcomes.

Our airframe engineering solutions are developed using advanced simulation, modelling and analysis tools to predict performance, validate compliance and minimise rework. By integrating design, analysis and certification under one roof, AFD Systems delivers a seamless, agile workflow, from early-stage concepting through to flight-approved manufacture.

This process is underpinned by our commitment to research & development, innovation and continuous improvement, ensuring our customers benefit from robust solutions, fit for the future.

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

With 600+ projects across 70 platforms including fixed-wing, rotary, UAVs, drones and land systems, AFD delivers advanced solutions that drive industries forward.

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AIRBUS H135 Human External Cargo Load Carrying System

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Case Study Example

It was important for Eirtech to create an optimum design team for this high-profile project and involving AFD from the out-set was a ‘no brainer’ for such a complex structural installation. They impressed from start to finish!

Keith McKercher
Director of Engineering, Eirtech Aviation Services

Sectors

In the primary sectors, we provide engineering solutions for new design, modifications, repairs and reverse engineering for major airlines, special mission platform operators, military fleets, and VIP customers.

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We are available, ready and waiting to help customers solve complex engineering problems, across an array of specialised sectors.

Our teams of experts are here to help you deliver optimal solutions, designs and products.

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Structural integrity from concept to certification

AFD Systems delivers advanced airframe engineering solutions that enable the design, modification and certification of advanced airframe structures across aerospace and defence platforms.

Airframe engineering expertise you can trust

Our process and methodology

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

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:

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

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

Sectors

Start your project

Trusted by organisations across the world