Air France-KLM and Airbus Forge a Historic Partnership to Elevate Airbus A350 Component Support Globally

Paris, Toulouse, September 4, 2023 – In a groundbreaking development that promises to redefine the landscape of aircraft maintenance services globally, Air France-KLM and Airbus have embarked on exclusive negotiations to establish a joint venture dedicated to Airbus A350 component support.

A 50-50 Joint Venture with a Global Vision

The proposed 50-50 joint venture between Air France and Airbus envisages the pooling of aircraft components assets from both giants, creating a worldwide pool of aircraft components. This initiative leverages the prowess of Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance and Airbus to offer an optimized commercial package that caters to the burgeoning maintenance needs of the global Airbus A350 fleet, which currently boasts over 550 operational aircraft and more than 1000 orders.

A Commitment to Innovation and Customer Satisfaction

Anne Brachet, the Executive Vice President of Air France-KLM Engineering & Maintenance, underscored the venture's commitment to harnessing the high-tech potential of the A350. The collaboration aims to foster responsive, high-quality, and cost-effective support solutions, ensuring long-term customer satisfaction.

Meeting the Growing Maintenance Demands of the A350 Fleet

Cristina Aguilar, the Senior Vice President of Customer Services at Airbus, emphasized the growing necessity for support as the A350 fleet expands globally. The partnership, rooted in a long-standing relationship between Air France-KLM Engineering & Maintenance and Airbus, seeks to amalgamate their complementary A350 component skills and capabilities, promising an enhanced service offering.

Operational by the First Half of 2024

With an eye on meeting all compliance prerequisites and securing necessary approvals from relevant authorities, the joint venture aims to become operational by the first half of 2024. This timeline aligns perfectly with the strategic vision to address the long-term maintenance needs of the Airbus A350 fleet through innovative solutions, expanded global footprint, and enhanced capacity.

About Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance

A leading player in the MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul) sector, Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance employs over 12,800 professionals, offering a comprehensive technical support portfolio that spans engineering, line maintenance, engine overhaul, and aircraft components management. Since 2016, the entity has been a trusted provider of Airbus A350 support, serving nearly 200 major international and domestic airlines that operate almost 3,000 aircraft. Learn more at AFI KLM E&M's official website.