JOHANNESBURG, Gauteng – Airbus has strengthened its presence in Africa with the launch of a new customer support centre for Airbus Commercial Aircraft in Johannesburg. The facility is designed to bring services closer to operators across the continent, supporting the safe, efficient and reliable operation of Airbus fleets.
The centre will provide technical assistance, engineering and maintenance solutions, fleet performance analysis, training services and on-site customer support for the full Airbus family of aircraft, from the A220 to the A350.
Speaking at the opening, Airbus Southern Africa Managing Director Nam-Minh Hoang highlighted the company’s long-standing ties with the continent. Airbus first entered Africa in 1976 with the delivery of an A300, and today nearly 40 airlines operate more than 260 Airbus aircraft. Looking ahead, Airbus’ Global Services Forecast estimates Africa will require 14,000 new pilots and 21,000 mechanics and engineers over the next two decades to meet surging air travel demand.
The launch coincides with Airbus Helicopters marking 30 years of operations in Southern Africa, where its Midrand hub offers maintenance, spare parts, logistics support and Africa’s first H125 virtual reality simulator for pilot training. Airbus Defence and Space also continues to work with African governments, delivering military aircraft, satellite connectivity and Earth observation solutions.
Beyond aviation services, Airbus maintains a significant industrial footprint in Africa. With over 180 African suppliers integrated into its global supply chain, the company contributes to skills development, technology transfer and local economic growth through component manufacturing, maintenance partnerships and training programmes.
At the event, South African Civil Aviation Authority executive Dean Khumalo underscored the importance of OEMs such as Airbus in advancing South Africa’s aviation ecosystem. He stressed that partnerships with governments, airlines and training institutions are critical to building future capacity and developing the next generation of aviation professionals.
Airbus Africa and Middle East President Gabriel Semelas reaffirmed the company’s commitment to expanding its support services and customer proximity. Meanwhile, Airbus Commercial Aircraft customer services VP Laurent Negre noted that by 2030 Airbus expects to support the world’s largest commercial aircraft fleet, with more than 18,000 aircraft in operation.
With the Johannesburg centre, Airbus says it is better positioned to deliver on that vision while deepening its engagement with Africa’s fast-growing aviation market.
IMAGE: AIRBUS SOUTH AFRICA
