Focused Programme-Level Interventions
Established in 2006, the AISI achieves impact in industry through focused programme-level interventions. The programmes are designed to assist industry to improve and acquire new capabilities that in turn enable improved competitiveness in the industry. Collaboration between the local aerospace and marine industries and the AISI is a key element in improving competiveness and establishing a global footprint in the advanced manufacturing environment. The AISI has supported the South African industry both directly and indirectly through interventions implemented by the following programmes:
PROGRAMME 1: TECHNOLOGY-BASED SUPPLIER DEVELOPMENT
The AISI’s Technology-Based Supplier Development intervention provides enabling mechanisms to assist industry to improve productivity, implement quality management systems, optimise operations and integration into global supply chains. These interventions are implemented with a specific aim of broadening the industrial base by encouraging original equipment manufacturer (OEMs), integrators and sub-systems suppliers to work with SMMEs and lower-tier suppliers in technology programmes.
Programme 2: Industry Development and Technology Support
This programme focuses on advancing production innovation such as the use of advanced manufacturing and other fourth industrial revolution technologies to build more durable, compact and efficient products. Access to new and existing processes, products and methods is also facilitated to ensure that beneficiaries develop products and services, which enable them to exploit multiple market opportunities. Integrators and sub-system suppliers are encouraged to include SMMEs and lower-tier suppliers in their supply chains, to enable the continuous transfer of knowledge, expertise, capabilities and technologies, and in doing so, broadening the industrial base.
PROGRAMME 3: SECTOR STRATEGIC SUPPORT INITIATIVES
The AISI implements, oversees and contributes projects of national interest through this programme. This includes the hosting of the Joint Aerospace Steering Committee and contributing to the development of the Aerospace and Defence Masterplan, both at operational and strategic levels. Through this programme, the AISI recently completed the development of the Commercial Aviation Industry Development Strategy.
Programme 4: Sector-Wide Accreditation
This programme assists the broader advanced manufacturing industries including marine to enhance their visibility within local and global supply chains and increase their competitiveness.
PROGRAMME 5: COORDINATION, PROMOTION AND AWARENESS
The AISI plays a pivotal role in coordinating activities in and promoting awareness of the aerospace sector in South Africa. A flagship event is the annual Aeronautical Society of South Africa Conference that brings together local industry players to showcase projects and associated impact achieved in the year.