Airbus SA committed to install a second production line in Tianjin, China, for its top-selling A320 series jets, which will bring its Chinese output to 10 aircraft/month, and help the OEM toward its goal of increasing production of single-aisle aircraft from 45 per month currently to 75 per month by 2026.
The capital investment for the project was not announced.
Currently there are nine assembly lines for the A320 series, four in Germany, two in France, two in Mobile, Ala., and the current line in Tianjin.
The A320 series (A319, A320, A321) are twin-engine, narrow-body aircraft that currently stands as the best-selling aircraft in the world. Airbus projects the Chinese market to grow at an average annual rate of 5.3% through 2043, representing demand for 8,420 new passenger jets and freighter aircraft – more than 20% of the world's total demand during that time.
The announcement of the new line came within the context of a state visit to China by French president Emmanuel Macron, and also included Airbus securing agreements with the China Aviation Supplies Holding Co. finalizing the purchase of 160 Airbus commercial aircraft previously ordered by domestic Chinese airlines.
And, Airbus Helicopters has signed a contract with GDAT, a Chinese helicopter lessor and operator, for 50 H160 helicopters for commercial and industrial use.
“We are honored to continue our long-standing cooperation by supporting China’s civil aviation growth with our leading families of aircraft. It underpins the positive recovery momentum and prosperous outlook for the Chinese aviation market and the desire to grow sustainably with Airbus’ latest generation, eco-efficient aircraft,” stated Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury.
