Airbus Board Members Conclude Four-Day Visit to India, Strengthening Aerospace Partnerships

Airbus board members wrapped up a four-day visit to India, a crucial market for the aerospace giant. The visit, which began on September 29, included their first board meeting in India since operations started over 60 years ago. Airbus board Chairman Rene Obermann met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi during this visit, according to an official.

During their stay, the board members explored Tata Advanced Systems Ltd's component manufacturing site in Hyderabad and Dynamatic Technologies' facility in Bengaluru. They also engaged with Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu and Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. Naidu highlighted the significance of the entire Airbus board visiting India for the first time, emphasizing the robust partnership between India and Airbus.

Strengthening Aerospace Ties

Minister Naidu noted that every Airbus aircraft and helicopter incorporates systems designed, manufactured, and maintained in India. He mentioned that aerospace companies are increasingly trusting India's aviation ecosystem and airlines. This trust has created new opportunities for Indian aircraft component manufacturers, as Airbus planes now feature Made-in-India doors.

Commerce Minister Goyal shared on X that he discussed investments and other matters with Airbus board members, led by Chairman Rene Obermann. He expressed encouragement for their plans to deepen collaboration and boost investments in India, reflecting the strength and potential of India's aerospace sector.

Expanding Operations in India

On September 30, Airbus and Air India announced a joint venture to establish a pilot training facility in Haryana for A320 and A350 aircraft. This venture involves an investment exceeding Rs 1,000 crore for simulators. An Airbus spokesperson stated that the board's visit marks a significant moment as India is a vital hub for global operations.

The spokesperson further mentioned that Airbus has surpassed sourcing USD 1.4 billion annually in components and services from India. The company aims to increase this figure as it integrates India further into its global value chain. Investments are expanding across engineering and digital centres in Bengaluru, crucial to worldwide operations.

Future Prospects

Airbus is establishing two final assembly lines (FALs) for H125 helicopters and C295 military aircraft with Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL). The H125 FAL is being set up at Vemagal in Karnataka, while the C295 FAL is being established at Vadodara in Gujarat. IndiGo and Air India have collectively ordered over 1,000 planes from Airbus.

An official emphasized that India's role in Airbus's global operations is growing significantly. The deepening investments span various areas, including expanding industrial footprints and enhancing engineering capabilities. This expansion underscores India's importance as a critical hub for Airbus's worldwide activities.

With inputs from PTI