KFT Fire Trainers in Chesterfield is a key part of Heathrow’s nationwide supply chain and has been celebrated at an event in MakeUK’s headquarters in Westminster. The business supports Heathrow in welcoming more than 80 million passengers and £200bn of trade every year.

Heathrow and MakeUK are partnering to showcase the businesses up and down the country that power the UK’s only hub airport. Thanks to the expertise in its nationwide supply chain, the airport is truly ‘Made in the UK’.

Heathrow must train rigorously for the rare scenario of an aircraft fire and Derbyshire-based KFT Fire Trainers are global experts in live fire training, with controlled environments that realistically replicate the heat, fire, and smoke of an aircraft fire.

Heathrow are using KFT to build a bespoke rig, which will simulate a large aircraft fire and ground fuel spill scenario.

Currently under construction at KFT’s partner facility, the rig will be delivered in large modules to Heathrow’s fire training ground in September 2025 for use by the Airport Fire Team and local partners.

Aviation Minister Mike Kane said: “This partnership highlights the strength and breadth of our aviation industry, with supply chains encompassing countless small to medium sized businesses. It's these links which help keep the UK competitive and reinforce our global reputation as the place for businesses to invest and grow.”

Heathrow’s Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer, Nigel Milton, said: “The UK’s Gateway to Growth is a national effort. Small businesses up and down the country are vital to enable Heathrow to connect all of the UK to global markets.