A new chapter in the development of Airbus’ production capabilities in the USA has begun with the inauguration of the completed A220 commercial aircraft final assembly line (FAL) in Mobile, Alabama. This 270,000ft² facility – which can produce both the A220-100 and A220-300 versions – houses five primary assembly stations where major airframe component assemblies come together for a completed aircraft.

Airbus’ production team in Mobile also marked another milestone, welcoming the first component assemblies destined to become an A220 for JetBlue. This low-cost carrier will be the second airline customer receiving US-built A220s when the aircraft is delivered in late 2020.

Paul Gaskell, president of A220 USA and head of A220 Program in Mobile, said: “The team is excited to start working in their new facility and to welcome a new customer. It is a strong endorsement from JetBlue in this challenging time.”

Airbus announced plans in October 2017 for the addition of A220 manufacturing at Mobile – which is situated on the edge of Mobile Bay along the Gulf of Mexico.

The company began producing A220s at Mobile in August 2019 using space in an existing final assembly line hangar for US-built A320 aircraft, and in newly-constructed support hangars. With the start of operations in the dedicated A220 final assembly line, Airbus’ production site in Alabama has now officially doubled in size.

Mr Gaskell aded: “The expansion of our commercial aircraft production in Mobile – from the A320 Family to the A220 – further solidifies Airbus’ standing as a truly global aircraft manufacturer, and confirms that Airbus remains an important part of the US manufacturing landscape.”

Mobile is the second assembly site for the A220, which is Airbus’ latest addition to its product line of single-aisle commercial aircraft. The A220’s primary production facility and programme headquarters are located in Mirabel, Canada, where dedicated functions – including engineering expertise and support functions – also are situated.