Airbus Expands Collaboration with Indian Companies for Aircraft Components

Airbus, the European aerospace giant, has taken a significant step in bolstering its partnership with Indian companies by signing contracts with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Mahindra Aerospace Structures Private Limited (MASPL) for the procurement of commercial aircraft components.

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Strengthening Ties with Indian Suppliers

Under the terms of the contracts, TASL and Mahindra Aerostructures will be responsible for manufacturing metallic detail parts, components, and assemblies for Airbus's A320neo, A330neo, and A350 programs. This collaboration marks an expansion of the existing relationship between Airbus and the two Indian companies, which are already part of a network of over 100 India-based suppliers providing components and engineering services for various Airbus programs.

'Make in India' at the Core of Airbus's Strategy

Airbus has placed a strong emphasis on its 'Make in India' strategy, aiming not only to support the growth of the Indian commercial fleet but also to foster the development of the country's aerospace ecosystem. Rémi Maillard, President and Managing Director of Airbus India and South Asia, emphasized the company's commitment to developing and strengthening manufacturing and engineering capabilities in partnership with Indian companies.

India as a Strategic Resource Hub

Airbus recognizes India's potential as a strategic resource hub, and the company is expanding its industrial footprint in the country. This includes aircraft assembly, component manufacturing, engineering design and development, MRO support, pilot and maintenance training, and academic collaboration to nurture human capital. As a result, every Airbus commercial aircraft today incorporates components and technologies made in India, including the A220 Escape Hatch Door and the Flap Track Beams for the A320neo and A330neo aircraft.

Growing Procurement from India

Airbus's current procurement of components and services from India stands at approximately USD 750 million annually, and the latest round of contracts is expected to contribute significantly to this figure. The company's efforts to develop the Indian aerospace ecosystem also include the establishment of a Final Assembly Line for the C295 military aircraft in Vadodara under an industrial contract with TASL, as well as training programs for commercial pilots and maintenance crew.

MASPL's Perspective on the Partnership

Arvind Mehra, Managing Director & CEO of Mahindra Aerostructures, expressed gratitude for Airbus's continued support and acknowledged the significance of the new contracts in expanding the company's portfolio and fostering collaboration on performance, sustainability, and operational excellence.

Airbus's expanded collaboration with Indian suppliers like TASL and MASPL underscores the company's commitment to 'Make in India' and its vision of developing a robust aerospace ecosystem in the country. This partnership not only benefits Airbus but also contributes to the growth and advancement of the Indian aerospace industry.