Safran has entered into a definitive agreement with Embraer for the sale of Safran Cabin’s shares in EZAir, the companies’ 50/50 joint venture. EZAir manufactures aircraft interiors for Embraer at its facility in Chihuahua, Mexico, and also supports associated aftermarket activities, as well as related engineering and manufacturing work in Brazil.
Under the terms of the agreement, Embraer will acquire Safran Cabin’s entire shareholding in the joint venture, resulting in full ownership of the Chihuahua operation. The site employs approximately 1,100 people and plays a central role in the production of Embraer cabin interiors. Once the transaction is completed, EZAir and its Mexican operations will be fully integrated into Embraer’s industrial footprint.
In parallel with the transfer of the joint venture, the activities of Safran Cabin Brazil that are directly linked to Embraer programmes will also be transferred to Embraer. These activities include engineering and manufacturing work carried out in support of Embraer aircraft. This move is intended to simplify the industrial set-up for both groups and align programme responsibilities more closely with Embraer’s internal operations.
Safran will, however, retain the non-Embraer-related engineering services activities currently undertaken by Safran Cabin Brazil. These operations will continue to be part of Safran’s cabin business and will remain focused on supporting other customers and programmes within the group’s broader aerospace portfolio.
The transaction forms part of an agreed strategic realignment between Safran and Embraer, enabling each company to concentrate on its respective priorities. For Embraer, full ownership of EZAir is expected to strengthen control over cabin interior development, manufacturing and aftermarket support across its aircraft programmes. For Safran, the transaction allows a sharper focus on its core cabin activities and customer base outside Embraer programmes.
Completion of the transaction remains subject to the receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals, as well as the fulfilment of customary conditions typically associated with transactions of this nature. Until those approvals are obtained, both companies will continue to operate in accordance with existing arrangements.
