Casablanca – Airbus Helicopters, a division of the global Airbus Group, has announced significant expansions in Morocco, including the establishment of a new subsidiary and a manufacturing facility. These steps mark a major enhancement of the company’s presence in the region and highlight Morocco’s growing importance in the aerospace industry.
New subsidiary for support and training
Airbus Helicopters has opened a new subsidiary in Morocco, which will serve as a customer support center for the 60 Airbus helicopters operated by the Royal Air Force, the Royal Navy, and the Moroccan Royal Gendarmerie. This subsidiary is set to evolve into a comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) center, featuring new dedicated facilities. It will also become Airbus Helicopters’ regional hub for West Africa.
In addition to its MRO services, the new site will include a state-of-the-art training center equipped with simulators. This center aims to accommodate trainee pilots from around the world, providing advanced training solutions.
Manufacturing facility to boost local industry
Airbus Helicopters has also decided to establish a factory in Morocco to produce and maintain helicopters. This facility will not only manufacture helicopters but also handle their maintenance, repair, and upgrades. The new factory represents a strategic investment in Morocco’s local industry and is expected to create numerous job opportunities for Moroccan citizens.
Strategic importance and future plans
Mickael Bertrand, the future general manager of Airbus Helicopters in Morocco, emphasized that the establishment of this new subsidiary and factory is part of an ambitious plan to create a regional center for all Airbus helicopters operating in West Africa. He highlighted Morocco’s strategic importance, citing the long-standing partnership with the Moroccan armed forces and the potential for significant growth in the region.
Recent deliveries and future outlook
Morocco’s Royal Air Force recently took delivery of twelve H135M helicopters, ordered in 2022. These helicopters are intended for a variety of missions, including training, utility, and search and rescue. The contract for these helicopters also included a comprehensive support program, covering the delivery of flight training devices and the training of both instructor and maintenance pilots.
Historical and ongoing commitment
Airbus has been active in Morocco since 1951 through its subsidiary Airbus Atlantic, which specializes in composite manufacturing, assembly of complex metal subassemblies, and avionics maintenance and support. In 2014, Airbus Atlantic expanded its operations with a new 15,000 m² factory in the Midparc zone, further boosting local capabilities. With two factories in Morocco, Airbus Atlantic now employs 1,000 people in the country.
The expansion of Airbus Helicopters in Morocco underscores the country’s strategic role in the global aerospace industry. By establishing a new subsidiary and manufacturing facility, Airbus aims to enhance its operational efficiency, foster local industry, and create new job opportunities. This move also strengthens the partnership between Morocco and Airbus, showcasing the Kingdom’s potential as a key player in the aviation sector.
