Airbus’ decade long partnership in the Middle East

Airbus and Strata are celebrating a decade of collaboration this week,  ten years which have seen their partnerships shape UAE’s aerospace industry.

As part of the UAE’s drive to create a world-class aerospace industry to deliver on its diversification strategy, Airbus is increasing its Middle Eastern footprint through industry cooperation with local entities to contribute to the nation’s economic growth. Abu Dhabi-based Strata Manufacturing has risen to become a regional supplier of Airbus aircraft parts in the Middle East, playing a major role in Airbus’ global supply chain.

Following the completion of Strata’s world-class facility in 2009, the aero composites manufacturer began supplying Airbus with aileron panels and flap-track fairings. In 2010, Strata shipped its first consignment of parts to Airbus for its A330 and A340 aircraft.

Strata further developed its manufacturing capabilities in 2015 by building parts of the wing for the Airbus A330, A340 and flap tracks for the A380. The same year, Airbus appointed Strata as its single-source supplier of ailerons for Airbus’ A330 aircraft. Deepening the level of cooperation between the two companies, 2016 became an important year with Airbus and Strata signing a landmark agreement to manufacture the Inboard Flaps for the A350-900.

“We have grown rapidly this past decade”

Mikail Houari, president for Africa and the Middle East at Airbus said: “Strata is a proud example of UAE excellence and success on so many levels. In addition to being a regional supplier of Airbus aircraft parts, Strata is also made up of a 700-strong workforce, of which 90 per cent are female and 50 per cent are Emirati.

As such, the manufacturer is a testament to the UAE’s long-term vision of promoting gender equality and Emiratisation. Strata is also a clear reflection of how we do business, advancing the UAE’s aerospace industry and the importance we place on purposeful collaboration and knowledge sharing at all levels.”

Ismail Ali Abdulla, CEO of Strata Manufacturing said: “As a UAE-based manufacturer, we are proud to enjoy a long and important global partnership with Airbus. We have grown rapidly this past decade to cement our role as a leading aerospace manufacturer by enhancing our capabilities to meet the growing complex requirements of global aerospace companies such as Airbus.”