Aerospace Industry Focuses on Affordability, Airworthiness

Q: What is the importance of innovation in aircraft interiors and how is Innocentro revolutionizing the industry in this regard?

A: Innocentro was founded almost 21 years ago as a spin-off of a large corporation. Our company is characterized by constant innovation, not only in our products and services but also internally. Thanks to this innovative mindset, we have weathered several global crises. Each of our designs focuses on aesthetics, passenger connectivity, entertainment systems, passenger comfort and airworthiness.

We strive to achieve the designer's vision and meet the customer's expectations. We also focus on passenger connectivity to ensure they stay connected at all times. Innocentro created an entertainment system that allows up to 50 devices to connect, for which we were finalists in the Crystal Cabin Awards. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the market and limited investment in this type of service. We also strive to make the passenger as comfortable as possible. Finally, our focus on airworthiness involves developing innovative products with futuristic trends that comply with FAA regulations and offer quality designs.

Q: What is the current main priority for the evolving aerospace industry?

A: For over 50 years, the aviation industry focused on making faster airplanes that flew higher and were more comfortable and functional, which led to the creation of companies like Boeing, Airbus and Embraer. However, the industry now aims to make aircraft more affordable. The sector is still focused on delivering quality products but faster and at a reduced cost. The industry is also focusing on weight reduction and airworthiness compliance.

Aviation protocols focus on safety and in protecting the integrity of the aircraft, interior, cargo or passengers, as well as safeguarding the people on the ground. If airworthiness directives did not exist, airplanes would fall out of the sky. 

Q: The aerospace industry is facing a talent shortage. How does Innocentro work to attract and retain talent?

A: To attract talent, we allied with several universities in Mexicali, Baja California. We use our experience to help train upcoming generations, sometimes starting even from middle school. The aerospace industry is one of the most demanding and needs professionals with sound judgment who can make fast decisions. The sector has also become more mercenary, making talent retention harder. Companies that focus on knowledge retention and problem-solving gain added value. 

Q: How does the company connect with the local industry to source raw materials from different suppliers?

A: Players that want to enter the aerospace industry need multiple certifications, such as the ISO 9000. Certifications are essential because they allow companies to speak the same language in terms of expertise, guarantees, evidence and audits. They must also know English because all the documentation in this industry is in this language. Being an entrepreneur is all about problem-solving. Companies must also strive to do their best in their field, no matter how small. They need to believe in themselves and prove that they are the best at what they do. By keeping processes simple and understandable, companies will be attractive to many people and retain talent while meeting today's demands. The more receptive a company is, the easier it will be to find clients and validate suppliers so everyone in the value chain is aligned. 

Mexico’s aerospace industry still has limited supplier diversity. The country has many suppliers but few are certified for the aerospace industry. Furthermore, many suppliers see the sector as complex and expensive, so they are afraid to enter it. There are many unfounded or misguided fears in this industry.