Boeing and Safran's new auxiliary power unit joint venture is ready to begin operations after regulators gave their go-ahead for the operation.
The partners plan to manufacture and support APUs, as part of the US airframer's efforts to strengthen its vertical capabilities and to grow its aftermarket unit, Boeing Global Services.
“We are open for business,” says BGS chief executive Stan Deal.
The company's name and locations for its headquarters and manufacturing activities have not been disclosed, but initial operations covering design tasks will begin in San Diego, California.
Safran chief executive Philippe Petitcolin describes the new company – in which both firms will each have a 50% share – as the “best-integrated industrial organisation”, which will deliver “innovative, highly technological and cost-competitive solutions”.
Safran manager Etienne Boisseau has been named chief executive of the joint venture.
Boeing director Linda Hapgood, who previously served as chief engineer for 767 and 747 airplane systems, will be chief operating officer, while the airframer’s senior finance director Erin Morrissey will oversee the new company’s accounting.
Joan Inlow – who previously served as Safran Power Units’ engineering director, based in San Diego – has been appointed as chief technology officer at the new venture.
Source: FlightGlobal.com
