Airbus wants more 'Made in India' aircraft parts: From titanium to complex assemblies, here's what company plans to source next

Airbus plans to increase its sourcing of components and services from India to USD 2 billion before 2030, as the European aircraft manufacturer looks to deepen its presence in one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets. Speaking at the Aviation India and South Asia 2026 conference in New Delhi on Tuesday, Airbus President and Managing Director for India and South Asia, Jurgen Westermeier, said the country was a "very important market" for the company. Airbus currently procures components and services worth around USD 1.6 billion annually from India. The company is also looking to expand its local manufacturing and sourcing activities, moving towards more complex aircraft assemblies, advanced avionics and engineering work.

Westermeier said India accounts for around 15% of Airbus' targeted annual production.

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Airbus sourcing from India to rise from USD 1.6 billion to USD 2 billion

Airbus is planning to increase its annual procurement from India to USD 2 billion before 2030, compared with the current level of USD 1.6 billion. The company is also looking to move Indian suppliers up the value chain. Its sourcing activities are gradually shifting from detailed aircraft parts to complex aerostructure assemblies, advanced digital avionics, and design and development work.

Airbus is also exploring opportunities to source raw materials from India, including processed titanium, aluminium alloys and composites.

The expansion is expected to create opportunities for domestic suppliers and strengthen India's role in the global aerospace manufacturing supply chain.

Airbus calls for stronger aviation ecosystem and MRO infrastructure

Alongside increasing its sourcing from India, Airbus is looking to support the development of the country's wider aviation ecosystem.

Westermeier said growth and ecosystem development were "two sides of the same coin". He stressed the need to upgrade the aviation industry's operating model quickly, including expanding domestic maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) infrastructure.

A stronger MRO network would help India handle a larger aircraft fleet and reduce its dependence on overseas facilities for maintenance and repair work.

He also flagged the need to address the aviation sector's skill gap, saying growth should not be held back by a shortage of trained pilots, engineers or certified aircraft technicians.

Airbus expands pilot training capacity in India

Airbus has invested in multiple pilot training centres in India to support the country's growing demand for aviation professionals.

These facilities have a combined installed capacity of 14 Full Flight Simulators, including simulators for wide-body aircraft.

The focus on training comes as Indian airlines prepare to expand their fleets and increase operations. The availability of skilled pilots, engineers and maintenance personnel will be important to support this growth.

Nearly 600 Airbus aircraft operating in India

Airbus has a significant presence in India's commercial aviation and defence sectors. Nearly 600 Airbus commercial aircraft are currently operating in the country, while Indian airlines have around 1,200 more aircraft on order.

India's airline fleet currently stands at approximately 800 aircraft and is projected to double in the coming years.

In January 2026, Airbus forecast that India's commercial aircraft fleet would triple in size to 2,250 aircraft over the next decade, reflecting the long-term growth potential of the domestic aviation market.

Airbus strengthens manufacturing presence in India

Apart from commercial aircraft supplies, Airbus is expanding its manufacturing footprint in India through two final assembly lines (FALs).

These facilities are involved in the production of the C295 military transport aircraft and the H125 helicopter.

The company's growing sourcing network, manufacturing operations and investments in training are part of its broader effort to strengthen India's position in the global aerospace industry.

With airlines placing large aircraft orders and passenger demand continuing to grow, Airbus sees India as an important market for both its business and its wider supply chain.


Inputs from PTI