Airbus Christens First U.S. Manufacturing Plant
At full production, the new Mobile, Ala., plant will be capable of producing 40-50 aircraft per year. Airbus also operates assembly lines in Toulouse, France; Hamburg, Germany; and Tianjin, China.
Airbus officials and Alabama's governor were on hand Sept. 14 when the French aircraft manufacturer officially opened its first U.S. manufacturing facility, a final assembly line in Mobile. Two A321 jetliners are undergoing final assembly at the site. "Today is a moment of pride for all Airbus people – everywhere," Airbus President and Chief Executive Officer Fabrice Brégier said during the inauguration ceremony. "What Airbus is doing here in Mobile is a successful extension of what we seek to do everywhere: design and make great aircraft to serve people."
The plant is located on the grounds of the Mobile Aeroplex at Brookley. It can produce A319, A320, and A321 jetliners. The facility so far employs about 260 production employees. "I can speak for all Airbus employees here in Mobile when I say that we are so proud to be a part of this global Airbus team," said Ryane Dedeaux, an employee at the plant. "We cannot wait to get to work. It's time to begin building the best aircraft in the world and begin doing it right here in Mobile, Alabama."
At full production, the plant will be capable of producing 40-50 aircraft per year. Airbus also operates assembly lines in Toulouse, France; Hamburg, Germany; and Tianjin, China.