Paris, February 16 - In a significant move to bolster global aerospace manufacturing capacity, Safran Landing Systems, a subsidiary of the French aerospace giant Safran, has announced the establishment of a new landing gear facility in Morocco. The project, unveiled on February 13, 2026, during a ceremony presided over by His Majesty King Mohammed VI at the Royal Palace in Casablanca, represents an investment exceeding 280 million euros (approximately $332 million). Located in the Casablanca airport zone, the 26,000-square-meter site will focus on producing landing gear components and modules, along with dedicated hydraulic equipment for short- and medium-haul aircraft. This strategic expansion aims to enhance Safran's ability to meet surging demand in the commercial aviation sector, particularly for the highly popular Airbus A320 family.
The primary driver behind this investment is the need to support the ramp-up of Airbus A320 production. As airlines worldwide continue to recover and expand fleets post-pandemic, Airbus has been working to increase output rates for its best-selling narrowbody aircraft. Landing gear systems, critical for safe takeoffs and landings, represent a complex and high-value component in aircraft assembly. By establishing this modern, highly efficient manufacturing operation close to key strategic markets, Safran seeks to improve supply chain agility, reduce lead times, and ensure reliable delivery to Airbus. The facility's integrated design, combining component machining, assembly, and hydraulic production, will streamline processes and enhance overall competitiveness in the aerospace supply chain.
Operations at the new plant are scheduled to commence in 2029, with plans to employ nearly 500 skilled workers. To prepare the local workforce, Safran has committed to a comprehensive training program developed in partnership with Moroccan stakeholders, focusing on specialized skills in precision machining and assembly. The site will also operate on 100% decarbonized electricity, aligning with broader industry goals for sustainability and environmental responsibility. This initiative not only strengthens Safran's industrial footprint but also positions Morocco as a vital hub in the global aerospace ecosystem, attracting additional suppliers and fostering long-term economic growth.
Overall, Safran's decision underscores the ongoing efforts by major suppliers to address production bottlenecks amid robust demand for fuel-efficient single-aisle jets like the Airbus A320. By investing in advanced capabilities in Morocco, the company is poised to contribute more effectively to Airbus's ambitious production targets while preparing for future generations of short- and medium-haul aircraft. This development highlights the evolving dynamics of aerospace manufacturing, where strategic geographic diversification plays a key role in sustaining growth and resilience.
