Introduction to Safran and its Relevance in Querétaro
Safran, a French manufacturer in the aerospace sector, is set to expand its operations in Querétaro, Mexico, through a $206 million investment. The company plans to enlarge its facilities in the region, including Safran Aero Composites, Safran Landing Systems Services Americas, and Safran Aircraft Engine Services Americas. This expansion is expected to create 238 new jobs, as confirmed by the state government.
Consolidating the Aircraft Engine Assembly Chain in Querétaro
Through these three projects, Safran aims to consolidate the entire aircraft engine assembly chain in Querétaro, according to Alejandro Cardona Seemann, President of Safran in Mexico. The company will establish a world-class site for long-range aircraft landing gear and feature two motor test benches.
“We will have testing sites where we will certify engines and replicate flight conditions, enabling us to assemble engines for new aircraft production lines. Currently, we have eight sites in Querétaro with nearly 4,000 employees, and these expansions will further increase our workforce here,” Cardona Seemann stated.
Meetings and State Government Support
On Tuesday, representatives from the state government and Safran directors gathered at the State Government Palace to discuss the projects. Governor Mauricio Kuri González highlighted that Safran will undertake three projects in Querétaro, where the company currently employs nearly 4,000 people—almost a quarter of its 16,000 employees in Mexico.
Kuri González emphasized Safran’s role in attracting other aerospace companies to Querétaro, making it a significant industry hub.
“Safran has been a leading force in attracting other companies to Querétaro, making it a prominent reference point for the aerospace industry. With over 16,000 employees under its wing in Mexico—4,000 of whom work here in Querétaro—Safran is undoubtedly a distinguished player in the global aerospace sector,” Kuri González expressed.
Safran’s Existing Operations in Querétaro
Querétaro already hosts Safran’s specialized production plants for aeronautical propulsion, along with maintenance and repair activities for aircraft engines. Safran Landing Systems Services Americas, based in Querétaro, focuses on maintaining and repairing landing gear and hydraulic components for the North American region.
Safran Aircraft Engine Services Americas, established in 2016, specializes in repairing CFM engine parts. Safran Aero Composites, launched in 2018, is the third Safran/Albany plant dedicated to producing LEAP motor components.
With nearly 34 years of presence in Mexico, Safran operates 20 production, maintenance, and engineering facilities across the country, employing more than 14,000 people—making it the largest aerospace sector employer in Mexico.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is Safran and its relevance in Querétaro? Safran is a French aerospace manufacturer with nearly 34 years of presence in Mexico, operating 20 facilities and employing over 14,000 people. In Querétaro, Safran has three key operations: Aero Composites, Landing Systems Services Americas, and Aircraft Engine Services Americas.
- What is the scope of Safran’s expansion in Querétaro? Safran plans to expand its existing facilities in Querétaro, focusing on propulsion components, landing gear maintenance, and engine part repairs. The $206 million investment will create 238 new jobs and further solidify Querétaro’s position as a significant hub for the aerospace industry.
- What are the three projects Safran will undertake in Querétaro? The three projects include expanding Safran Aero Composites, enhancing Safran Landing Systems Services Americas, and bolstering Safran Aircraft Engine Services Americas. These projects aim to consolidate the aircraft engine assembly chain in Querétaro and strengthen its position as a leading aerospace industry center.
