Safran Landing Systems expands and modernises Molsheim site

Safran Landing Systems has officially inaugurated a new state-of-the-art machining building and two advanced surface treatment lines at its Molsheim facility in Alsace, France. The ceremony was attended by key regional and company figures, including Claude Sturni, Vice-President of the Grand Est Region, Thierry Rogelet, Sub-Prefect of Molsheim, Olivier Andriès, CEO of Safran, and François Bastin, CEO of Safran Landing Systems.

This investment strengthens and modernises the site’s capacity to produce and maintain landing and braking systems, supporting increased aircraft production rates and the growing global demand for MRO services. The newly inaugurated ExcelFAB building spans 840 m² and houses high-tech five-axis machining centres for producing key components such as braking manifolds, uplocks and steering manifolds. The facility operates with a fully automated production process, ensuring exceptional industrial performance and quality.

A €1.125 million (US$1.28 million) grant from the Grand Est Region in 2021 contributed to the development of ExcelFAB and wider production capabilities at Molsheim. The site’s expansion also includes a sulfuric acid anodising (SAA) line and a chrome plating line. The SAA line treats aluminium components such as wheels and hydraulic rings, while the chrome plating line supports landing gear maintenance, handling up to 3,000 different types of steel parts. Both lines utilise digital technology to enable real-time monitoring of production data, enhancing quality control.

Safran’s latest developments also reflect a strong focus on corporate social responsibility. The new facilities feature ergonomically optimised workstations to reduce manual handling and are designed with sustainability in mind. ExcelFAB’s thermal insulation and reversible thermodynamic heating system cut energy consumption by 40%, while the new machining centres are 10% more energy efficient. CO₂ emissions from the SAA line have been reduced by 98 tonnes annually thanks to a new heat pump system replacing traditional gas heating.