New Safran/Albany production plant inaugurated in eastern France

Safran/Albany inaugurated a new production plant in Commercy, eastern France, within the scope of the industrial partnership between Safran and Albany. Opened in May 2014, the plant makes parts for new-generation aircraft engines using an innovative composite material technology. The first application of this new technology is the production of fan blades and cases for the LEAP aircraft engine from CFM International, which will power the next generation of single-aisle commercial jets, including the Airbus A320neo and the Boeing 737 MAX. The joint production plant has already recruited more than 90 employees, and by 2018, it will have 400 employees on a 10 hectare (25 acre) site, including 27,000 m² (291,600 ft²) of floorspace. The LEAP engine incorporates advanced technologies in its aerodynamic design, materials and environmental protection measures. The 3D woven composite parts made by Safran and Albany are very strong and light, which will help reduce the LEAP’s fuel consumption by 15% compared with current CFM engines. Chosen to power new-generation single-aisle commercial jets, the LEAP is already very successful, having recorded over 7,800 orders to date, which equals more than five years of production for Safran. The two partners also inaugurated a twin plant in Rochester, New Hampshire in the United States, which will produce the same 3D woven composite parts for the LEAP engine. Safran and Albany have invested a total of US$200m in these plants.