In a significant boost to Quebec’s aerospace industry, Airbus and the Quebec government have announced a joint investment of US$1.2 billion in Airbus Canada Limited Partnership.
This strategic move extends their collaboration until 2035, reinforcing the future of the A220 program. This is the only commercial aircraft designed and manufactured in Quebec.
The investment, proportional to each partner’s ownership stake, demonstrates a strong commitment to the A220’s success and its continued positive impact on Quebec’s economy.
Airbus, holding a 75% share in Airbus Canada, will contribute up to US$900 million. Meanwhile the Quebec government, with its 25% stake, will invest up to US$300 million through Investissement Québec.
Announcement at Airbus Mirabel Site
The announcement was made at a press conference held at the A220 site in Mirabel, located in the Laurentians region. Notable attendees included:
- François Legault, Premier of Quebec
- Pierre Fitzgibbon, Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy
- Sylvie D’Amours, Member of the National Assembly for Mirabel
- Lucie Lecours, Member for Les Plaines
In addition to the investment, the partners have agreed to postpone the redemption date of Quebec’s equity stake from 2030 to 2035.
This five-year extension provides Airbus Canada with more time to enhance the A220 program’s value, particularly as they aim to ramp up production to 14 aircraft per month by 2026.
Government Officials Statements
Premier François Legault recognized the economic potential of the joint investment.
“Today, we are consolidating the presence of Airbus, an aerospace giant, in a sector that creates enormous wealth for our nation. We are building a strong, prosperous and forward-looking economy in Quebec.”
Minister Pierre Fitzgibbon emphasized the A220’s Quebec roots, saying, “The A220 is the fruit of Quebec genius.”
“We can be proud of having developed one of the best aircraft in the world. By extending our partnership with Airbus, we are securing key jobs in the Mirabel region for years to come.”
Airbus Canada CEO Comments
Benoît Schultz, CEO of Airbus Canada, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the A220 program. He highlighted the aircraft’s technological advancements, economic performance, and reduced carbon footprint.
Schultz also praised Quebec’s skilled workforce and robust aerospace ecosystem, stating they provide “everything needed to ensure the full potential of the A220 programme.”
A220 Program Growth Since 2018
Since Airbus gained majority ownership in July 2018, the A220 program has experienced remarkable growth:
- The order book has more than doubled, surpassing 900 aircraft.
- Employee numbers have increased by 75%, including 1,600 new hires in Quebec over the past two years.
- The A220 now commands over 55% market share in its category.
- Improvements have extended the aircraft’s range and increased its passenger load factor.
- 100 million passengers have flown on the 340 A220 aircraft currently in service.
Industrial and Innovation Initiatives
The investment has also spurred several industrial projects and innovations:
- Expansion of workstations at the Mirabel site
- Addition of the only Airbus subassembly area outside Europe
- Inauguration of the A220 Flight and Integration Test Center, the second Airbus flight test center globally
- Creation of 10 partnerships between Airbus, SMEs, research centers, and universities in Quebec
- Focus on sustainable aviation fuel development and aeronautical material recycling studies
Summary
This substantial investment and extended partnership between Airbus and Quebec not only secure the A220 program’s future but also reinforce Quebec’s position as a global aerospace hub.
The continued growth and innovation in the A220 program promise to deliver economic benefits, create high-skilled jobs, and drive technological advancements in the aviation industry for years to come.
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