In a significant stride for Morocco’s burgeoning industrial landscape, His Majesty King Mohammed VI, accompanied by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, presided over a pivotal ceremony in Casablanca on Friday. The event marked the official launch of a new, cutting-edge Safran landing gear production plant in Nouaceur, signaling a major boost for the nation’s aerospace sector and its integration into global value chains.
A Landmark Investment for Moroccan Industry
This ambitious project, situated within the Midparc aerospace industrial zone, represents a substantial investment exceeding €280 million (over MAD 3 billion). It is projected to generate 500 highly skilled jobs, underscoring Morocco’s commitment to fostering economic growth and creating opportunities for its talented workforce. The facility is poised to become one of Safran’s largest landing gear production centers worldwide, specializing in advanced systems for the popular Airbus A320 aircraft.
Pioneering Technology and Sustainable Operations
More than just a manufacturing plant, this new Safran facility embodies technological excellence and environmental responsibility. It will incorporate high-precision machining, sophisticated assembly techniques, rigorous testing, certification processes, and comprehensive maintenance services for landing systems. Crucially, the plant is designed to operate entirely on decarbonized energy, aligning with global efforts towards sustainable industrial practices and showcasing Morocco’s dedication to green manufacturing.
Morocco: A Rising Star in Global Aerospace
Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, emphasized during the ceremony that King Mohammed VI’s visionary leadership over the past two decades has transformed Morocco into a recognized global aerospace platform. The new seven-hectare factory is a testament to the country’s growing mastery of complex technologies and its strategic integration into the international aerospace supply chain. With approximately 25,000 Moroccan professionals already contributing to the national aerospace production chain, this project is set to further cultivate and empower young Moroccan talent.
Safran’s Deepening Commitment to Morocco
Ross McInnes, Chairman of Safran, highlighted the strategic importance of this new venture, recalling the successful launch of Safran’s aircraft engine complex in Morocco last October. He lauded the Nouaceur landing systems factory as “one of the largest in the world for landing gear and equipment,” equipped with state-of-the-art processes and unparalleled expertise. McInnes noted that the plant’s strategic location, in close proximity to Safran’s existing European assembly lines for Airbus, will facilitate faster production cycles and more agile industrial operations. Furthermore, the project is expected to stimulate the growth of new local suppliers, strengthening Morocco’s aerospace ecosystem and enabling Safran to meet the increasing demand for Airbus A320 aircraft while preparing for future generations of short- and medium-haul planes.
Solidifying Partnerships for Future Growth
The ceremony culminated in the signing of a memorandum of understanding, formalizing the establishment of the factory. The agreement was signed by Minister Ryad Mezzour, Minister Delegate Karim Zidane, and Ross McInnes, symbolizing a robust partnership between Morocco and Safran. As a global leader in aircraft engines and the world’s third-largest aerospace company outside of aircraft manufacturers, Safran has steadily expanded its presence in Morocco over the past 25 years. The Midparc industrial platform in Nouaceur, with its advanced infrastructure and strategic location, continues to solidify its reputation as a vital hub for Morocco’s dynamic aerospace sector.
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