14 July 2026
Pembrokeshire-based light aircraft engineering specialist Metal Seagulls will close its hangar operations later this summer, bringing to an end almost 11 years supporting homebuilders, aircraft owners and manufacturers.
The company, based at Haverfordwest Airport, says it has taken the decision following a review of operating costs, concluding that it is no longer commercially viable to continue its hangar operation.
The wind-down is voluntary and solvent, with flying-related activities expected to cease at the end of August before the business is wound down over the following months.
Since its formation in 2016, and the move to Haverfordwest in 2021, Metal Seagulls has earned a reputation for producing specialist metalwork, CNC-machined parts, fuel tanks and bespoke fabrication for homebuilt aircraft, OEMs and specialist operators.
Metal Seagulls team in happier times
Director Jonathan Porter said the decision had been driven by both economic realities and personal circumstances.
“We are sad to see Metal Seagulls close its hangar doors after nearly eleven years of service, but it is the right decision with the economic and personal challenges faced by the company and its directors at this time.”
Porter has also been recovering from a serious leg injury sustained in 2025, which has limited the physical support he has been able to provide in the workshop over the past nine months.
Fellow director Patricia Porter acknowledged the difficulty of the decision but thanked customers and suppliers for their loyalty.
“We are grateful to our customers, suppliers and the wider light aviation community for their support over the years, and we intend to work closely with clients during the wind-down to keep disruption to a minimum.”
The company says existing customer support will be transferred to another business in due course where possible, while its workshop machinery and production equipment are now being offered for sale. The package includes a sophisticated CNC fabrication cell, aviation tooling, moulds and workshop equipment that could allow another company to continue supporting the light aircraft sector. Enquiries should be made to Jonathan Porter.
