The new Safran Aircraft Engines Poland plant, officially inaugurated at the beginning of July, will make low-pressure turbine blades for the LEAP turbofan engine from CFM International (the 50/50 joint venture owned by GE and Safran Aircraft Engines).

Safran has invested around 48 million euros in this ‘state of the art’ 8,000m2 facility, which has been fitted out with the latest machinery and equipment. The plant is located in the heart of Aviation Valley (south-east Poland). It already has more than 200 employees and delivered its first parts in July 2017.

It has set an objective of turning out 180,000 low-pressure turbine blades this year, rising to 350,000 in 2019 and 800,000 a year by 2022.

Safran (www.safran-group.com) says its investment in this new factory reflects its determination to develop top-flight industrial capabilities to support the unprecedented ramp-up of the LEAP engine.

CFM International plans to deliver around 1,100 engines this year — and 2,000 a year from 2020.

Safran CEO Philippe Petitcolin said: “I’m delighted to inaugurate our new facility in Poland, which will further cement the industrial bonds we have formed with the country over more than 15 years.

"The Polish aviation industry calls on a highly skilled labour force, underpinning its strong growth and making it a major player in Europe.

"Safran is contributing to this growth by taking an active role in various specialised training programmes and by making substantial local investments, thus creating a number of jobs.”