European aerospace giant Airbus is expanding its presence in Morocco with the establishment of a new helicopter division, Airbus Hélicoptères Maroc. The division will be supported by a comprehensive maintenance center located at the country's defense industrial base. According to Mickaël Bertrand, Airbus' representative in Morocco, the center will cater to the needs of the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces and countries in West Africa. This strategic move is expected to strengthen Airbus' foothold in the region.
The new maintenance center is a significant development for Morocco's aerospace industry. Airbus has been supporting the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces for several years, providing maintenance for nearly 60 aircraft. With the recent order for ten H225M tactical transport helicopters, the country's helicopter fleet is expected to grow to 65-70 aircraft in the coming years. The maintenance center will initially focus on helicopters, requiring the establishment of a suitable regulatory framework and training programs.
To support the growth of its operations in Morocco, Airbus is collaborating with local organizations, including the Groupement des industries marocaines aéronautiques et spatiales, the Institut des métiers de l’aéronautique, and the Institut spécialisé dans les métiers de l’aéronautique et de la logistique aéroportuaire. These partnerships will enable the development of a skilled workforce and the implementation of advanced maintenance techniques. The maintenance center is expected to play a critical role in supporting the country's growing aerospace industry.
In addition to its military activities, Airbus is also expanding its civil operations in Morocco. The company is expecting a 30% growth in its composite activity in the coming months, with production rates set to increase significantly next year. Airbus operates three industrial entities in Nouaceur, including two sites at Midparc and a historic composites site near the airport. The acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems' site has been completed, with the facility now operating as Airbus Atlantique Maroc Aero.
The growth of Airbus' operations in Morocco is also reflected in its recent achievements. The first flight of the A350F, a cargo version of the long-haul aircraft, took place on September 29, with an airframe manufactured in Morocco. Every Airbus aircraft in service worldwide contains at least one component made in Morocco. The company's activities in the country support 1,300 direct jobs and nearly 10,000 indirect jobs.
Airbus is also committed to research and development in Morocco. The company is one of the four founding members of a new platform focused on advanced manufacturing, announced during the Marrakech Air Show. Airbus has also presented a concept for cooperation between manned helicopters and drones, highlighting its innovative approach to aerospace technology.
Looking ahead, Airbus is poised to support Royal Air Maroc's ambitious plans to expand its fleet fourfold by 2037. While the company is unwilling to comment on the commercial aspects of the deal, it has expressed its readiness to work with the airline to achieve its goals. With its growing presence in Morocco and its commitment to innovation and job creation, Airbus is set to remain a major player in the country's aerospace industry.
Key points
- Airbus establishes new helicopter division and maintenance center in Morocco
- The maintenance center will support the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces and countries in West Africa
- Airbus' activities in Morocco support 1,300 direct jobs and nearly 10,000 indirect jobs
