Space & Aerospace SIC Codes Guide (UK)

Andrew Evans

— 2 min read

Understanding SIC Codes for Space and Aerospace Companies

When forming or operating a space or aerospace business in the UK, selecting the correct Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes is an important step. SIC codes are used by Companies House, HMRC, investors, lenders, and industry bodies to identify the nature of a company’s activities and to categorise businesses within recognised sectors of the economy.

For space-tech companies, aerospace manufacturers, satellite developers, and engineering-led organisations, choosing the correct SIC classification helps ensure that the business is accurately represented within the UK space sector. This can be particularly relevant when engaging with investors, applying for funding, or positioning the company within the growing UK space economy.

Space and aerospace businesses often operate across multiple disciplines including manufacturing, engineering, maintenance, software integration, and operational services. As a result, it is common for companies to adopt more than one SIC code to reflect both current activities and future development plans.

The SIC codes below are the most commonly used SIC codes for space companies in the UK.

SIC code 30300 is typically the primary SIC code used by space-tech and aerospace companies.

Activities covered under this classification include:

  • Manufacture or assembly of aircraft, spacecraft, or satellites
  • Production of aerospace structures, propulsion systems, and onboard machinery
  • Engineering and manufacturing of aerospace components and subsystems
  • Design, development, and integration of hardware used within aviation or space environments

This SIC code is commonly adopted by aerospace manufacturers, satellite developers, engineering-led space companies, and organisations involved in the production or integration of space-related technologies. Even where physical manufacturing is outsourced, companies responsible for design and system integration may still fall within this classification.

SIC 33160 — Repair and maintenance of aircraft and spacecraft

SIC code 33160 applies to companies involved in the repair, maintenance, and ongoing technical support of aerospace and space equipment.

Typical activities include:

  • Inspection, maintenance, and repair of aircraft or spacecraft components
  • Refurbishment or overhaul of aerospace equipment
  • Testing, servicing, and technical upgrades
  • Specialist engineering support relating to operational aerospace assets

This SIC code is frequently used alongside 30300 where companies provide lifecycle support services in addition to manufacturing or system development. It reflects involvement in maintaining operational reliability within the aerospace and space supply chain.

SIC 51220 — Space transport

SIC code 51220 relates specifically to activities involving transportation into space.

Examples include:

  • Launch services and orbital transportation
  • Commercial payload transport
  • Operation or management of space transport infrastructure
  • Supporting activities connected with spaceflight operations

Although relatively few UK businesses currently operate launch or transport services directly, this SIC code is relevant for companies involved in launch partnerships, infrastructure development, or future commercial spaceflight and transport initiatives.

How Space Companies Typically Use SIC Codes in Practice

In practice, many UK space and aerospace companies combine SIC codes to reflect the breadth of their activities. A common structure is:

  • 30300 as the primary activity (manufacture and development)
  • 33160 to cover maintenance and engineering support services
  • 51220 where transport or launch capability exists or is planned

Selecting appropriate SIC codes helps ensure that a space company is correctly categorised within the aerospace sector and clearly communicates its activities to external stakeholders.

Why SIC Code Selection Matters for Space-Tech Businesses

Correct SIC classification helps space-tech companies:

  • Present a clear and accurate business profile to investors and partners
  • Align with recognised aerospace and space-sector activity classifications
  • Support funding and grant applications where industry categorisation is relevant
  • Reflect both current operations and future technological direction

As the UK space economy continues to expand, understanding how SIC codes apply to space and aerospace activities helps companies position themselves clearly within one of the fastest-growing advanced technology sectors.

Space-Tech Advisory Context

While SIC codes describe operational activities, modern space-tech businesses often operate at the intersection of engineering, software, and commercial innovation. Understanding how classifications align with real-world activities ensures that companies present an accurate picture of their role within the wider aerospace and space ecosystem, particularly as businesses evolve from development through to operational deployment.