NEXTGEN FACTORY LAUNCH
Airbus Helicopters has launched a 10-year, $260 million NextGen Factory in Marignane, France, to redevelop the 80-year-old site. The new facility will be 334,000 square feet. Futuristic plans follow the France 2030 program, which focuses on country-wide strategic investment in industry, innovation, and ecology.
The NextGen Factory will model 4.0 technology and demonstrate modern machining for
manufacturing as rotors, items transmissions,
such and
other helicopter components. Construction began in early February 2026. Because France
2030 is focused on ecology, it will follow environmental standards to decarbonize manufacturing while promoting sustainable practices.
Airbus Helicopters is the third- largest
employer in Marignane,
near Marseille, with 12,500 employees. Airbus Helicopters President Bruno Even said, “The facility investment will guarantee the long-term competitiveness of our industrial facilities and continue to innovate to offer solutions adapted to the needs of our customers. Innovations may inform the helicopter and aerospace supply chain in France and beyond, ultimately reducing parts delivery times.”
SÉCURITÉ CIVILE HELICOPTER OPERATIONS
As Airbus Helicopters is a French company, it has committed to the health and safety of French citizens through its H145 helicopter. The Sécurité Civile operates a headquarters and 23 nationwide bases to provide search and rescue, emergency medical services, aerial firefighting, and mission work in the mountains and at sea. The mandate is through the General Directorate for Civil Defense and Crisis Management, via the Ministry of the Interior, in the French government. They also have two fixed-wing aircraft at their headquarters location.
The operation has 300 personnel, 100 pilots, 100 flight engineers, and 100 mechanics. They have 23 bases in France and in French- controlled territories. Airbus Helicopters has contracted to support the fleet of the H145 family of helicopters for this operation.
SUMMARY
This year for Airbus continues to offer powerful mission-ready helicopter solutions. They are taking into account responsiveness through customer service and parts availability. The company is innovating new aircraft with cutting-edge technology. Ultimately, the Airbus leadership imbues professionalism, thoughtfulness, and confidence. Their investments in technology proves they are ready to answer the call for civil and public service, aerial firefighting, military, and search and rescue with an eye on comprehensive testing and safety.
Their objective is to “go where any other helicopter can’t go.” They take calls from firefighters, ship captains, and others on land and at sea who need support. They provide extensive training, lasting 17-24 weeks, for both experienced and rookie pilots. Because they fly in all conditions, they are trained on managing all situations. They also have hoist and night-vision goggle capability. A cumulative total of 18,500 missions were conducted in 2025.
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