Airbus SE, the European aerospace giant, has taken a significant step towards securing its supply chain stability and sustainability. On Monday, July 1, 2024, the company announced signing a binding term sheet with Spirit AeroSystems, a leading supplier of aerostructures, for the potential acquisition of key Airbus-related operations. This proposed transaction marks a pivotal move for Airbus, aiming to solidify its production processes and ensure a smoother, more predictable operational and financial path.
The key operations targeted in this potential acquisition encompass various critical components of Airbus’s commercial aircraft programs. These include the production of A350 fuselage sections in Kinston, North Carolina, and St. Nazaire, France; A220 wings and mid-fuselage in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and Casablanca, Morocco; and A220 pylons in Wichita, Kansas. By acquiring these operations, Airbus aims to strengthen its control over the manufacturing process, ultimately enhancing the overall stability and efficiency of its aircraft production.
The proposed transaction involves a nominal consideration of $1.00, with Spirit AeroSystems compensating Airbus $559 million. However, the final transaction value will be subject to adjustments based on the details finalized during due diligence. While the completion of the acquisition is not yet guaranteed, all parties involved are committed to working diligently and in good faith to finalize the process promptly. This acquisition, if successfully completed, has the potential to significantly impact the aerospace industry, signaling a renewed focus on supply chain resilience and strategic partnerships in the sector.
