Rabat – Morocco has become an “obvious choice” for investment in the aerospace sector thanks to its skilled talent, strong industrial momentum, and modern infrastructure, Safran CEO Olivier Andriès said on Thursday.
Speaking on the French channel BFM Business’s program Good Morning Business, Andriès noted that Safran’s decision to invest in the new aircraft engine complex in Nouaceur was based on “objective and global factors,” including the country’s welcoming business environment, industrial capacity, and availability of qualified engineers.
“Morocco has exceptional engineering schools and a stable macroeconomic environment,” he said, describing the country as “absolutely strategic for Safran, a place where we have steadily expanded our operations over the past 25 years.”
Safran currently employs 5,000 people in Morocco, whom Andriès described as “extraordinary, dedicated, and enthusiastic talents performing at the highest operational level.”
He added that the group is expanding its engine assembly capacity “at a time when major aircraft manufacturers, Airbus and Boeing, are ramping up production.”
The CEO explained that Safran’s latest investment aligns with its “resilience strategy,” aimed at maintaining “at least dual sources” for all operations. He cited the example of the company’s nacelle production facilities for Airbus A320 aircraft, now split between France and Casablanca, the latter boasting “outstanding performance.”
Following the same approach, Safran decided to establish its new engine assembly and testing plant in Nouaceur, near Casablanca.
The group has also developed the first certified electric aircraft engine, drawing significant interest from startups and companies developing next-generation aviation platforms.
Earlier this week, King Mohammed VI presided over the launch of Safran’s new industrial complex in Nouaceur, which includes an assembly and testing plant for aircraft engines, and another dedicated to maintenance and repair of new-generation LEAP (Leading Edge Aviation Propulsion) engines.
The project is expected to create numerous job opportunities for Moroccan youth, matching their advanced technical training and growing expertise in aerospace.
As the world’s leading manufacturer of short- and medium-haul aircraft engines and the third-largest aerospace player after aircraft manufacturers, Safran continues to strengthen its presence in Morocco. Its long-standing partnership with the country reflects the growing importance of Morocco’s aerospace ecosystem.
MWN with MAP
