With increasing production demands for the Airbus A320 and space limitations at
Safran Cabin’s Plzen site in the Czech Republic, the company has established a new facility at Rokycany, to both enhance operational efficiency and accommodate growth. The 8,000m
2 factory, which is dedicated to long-haul aircraft products, brings the total footprint of Safran Cabin’s facilities in the country to 26,000m
2. The new site is responsible for producing crew rest modules for cargo areas, lavatories, and staircases for the Airbus A330, as well as next-generation galleys for Boeing 777 aircraft.
Alexandre Atayi, Safran Cabin’s project manager, said the proximity to the existing Plzen facilities was one of the deciding factors, as Rokycany provides access to a larger talent pool. “This is crucial for meeting the significant recruitment needs as the site is expected to create up to 250 new jobs once it reaches full capacity.
“The new factory is equipped with cutting-edge technologies aimed at improving production capabilities, including advanced lighting and temperature control systems that are crucial for adhesive operations. All critical processes were qualified before operations began to ensure high production standards.”
Meanwhile, Safran Seats has launched a CAAC-certified (Civil Aviation Administration of China) MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) capacity in Suzhou to support the growing C919 fleet. The company said the establishment of a local (MRO) capacity in Mainland China has become crucial to ensuring the continued delivery of world-class support to its customers, and that with the continued growth of Comac’s fleet, particularly the C919 aircraft, this new MRO capacity in Suzhou marks a significant step in enhancing the operational efficiency of Comac aircraft operators (Comac — the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China Ltd — is a Chinese state-owned aerospace manufacturer established 11 May 2008 in Shanghai and is a designer and constructor of large aircraft with capacities of over 150 passengers).