Airbus Americas joins US Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation

Airbus Americas has joined the Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation (IACMI) as a premium industrial member. Membership in IACMI aligns the mutual goals of the association and of Airbus as related to composite manufacturing.

“We are enthusiastic and energized by the possibilities to work within the IACMI network of member organizations to develop technologies that will reduce the cost and energy consumption of composite manufacturing,” explained David Hills, Vice President, Research and Technology, Airbus Americas.

The Airbus vision for cost reductions in composite manufacturing includes developing technologies to improve the recyclability of carbon fibre composites, Hills adds.

Additionally, the move helps Airbus Group in its effort to build upon existing technology partnerships with U.S. universities, laboratories and suppliers while exploring new technology collaborations with the other IACMI members.

“We are pleased to welcome Airbus as an IACMI-The Composites Institute premium member,” said said Dr. Craig Blue, Institute CEO. “Gaining Airbus as a member strengthens the diversity and expertise of the entire organization.”

This news signals Airbus’ commitment to enhance its footprint in the frame of U.S. manufacturing. Just last fall, Airbus opened the company’s first U.S. manufacturing facility – a $600-million, 53-acre facility in Mobile, Alabama, initially serving as the assembly line for Airbus’ A320 aircraft family.

Officially named The Airbus U.S. Manufacturing Facility, first deliveries will begin this spring. The facility is expected to produce between 40 and 50 aircraft per year by 2018 – building the A319, A320 and A321 versions of Airbus’ best-selling single-aisle family of jetliners.

The vast majority of A320 Family jetliners produced in Mobile will be delivered to North American customers.