Airbus plans to open a new office in Johannesburg

European aircraft manufacturer Airbus has revealed plans to set up a new Customer Support Centre in Johannesburg.

AIRBUS JOHANNESBURG CUSTOMER SUPPORT CENTRE

The new centre will indeed contribute to strengthening Airbus’ local presence and will support the growth of the African aviation ecosystem.

“We are proud to open this new office to increase our proximity to customers while continuing to support the development of solutions for Africa, in Africa, and by Africa.” says Laurent Negre, VP Airbus Customer Services Africa and Middle East.

SERVING THE AFRICAN REGION

Serving as a hub for customers in the region, the new office will therefore provide tailored support and enhance operational efficiency.

The Customer Support Centre will drive the development of existing local capabilities. Thus, ensuring access to maintenance and training resources while fostering a stronger, more collaborative ecosystem in the region

SUPPORTING GROWTH IN AVIATION

By supporting the growth of the local aviation industry, Airbus aims to empower airlines and reinforce their autonomy.

This will not only benefit airlines but also the entire industry and the local workforce.

The office will employ local employees with the expertise required to offer support to air service operators.

“With the rapid expansion of the latest generation aircraft on the continent, Africa requires additional dedicated support and skills to meet the increasing demand for intra-African and international connectivity,” Negre said.

GROWTH FORECASTS FOR AFRICAN AVIATION

Airbus forecasts that air traffic in Africa will in fact double by 2043.      

As such, air service providers will need several new aircraft to accommodate this.

Furthermore, the aircraft producer seeks to ensure that African operators of its aircraft are well supported.

OUTLOOK FOR AFRICAN AVIATION

Airbus’ most recent Global Market Forecast, predicts that commercial demand for the African continent will reach 1460 passenger and freight aircraft by 2043.

The figure includes 1210 single-aisle aircraft as well as 250 widebody aircraft.

Furthermore, Airbus’ Global Services Forecast estimates that Africa will need to introduce 15 000 additional pilots and 20 000 mechanics to meet the surge in air travel demand. 

This means that the continent will have to ramp up the training of people with these skill sets.

AIRBUS OPERATORS IN AFRICA

At present, these aircraft are being widely used by various airline operators across the African continent.

Sustainability in the Sky reports that there are currently 257 Airbus passenger aircraft in service with 36 African airlines.

This includes Air Mauritius, Air Seychelles, Ethiopian Airlines, South African Airways, Uganda Airlines and RwandAir.

AIRBUS IN SOUTH AFRICA

The company has a long history with South Africa.

South African Airways has operated a number of Airbus aircraft over the years.

That said, in 1976, South African Airways was the first airline in Africa to operate the Airbus A300 aircraft.

The airline now operates several widebody Airbus A330 and A340 aircraft for long-haul flights. It also has a number of Airbus A320s for regional and domestic services.

In addition, South Africa’s low-cost carrier, Lift Airline, also has a fleet comprised entirely of A320 aircraft.