Safran Invests US$7 Million in Chihuahua Plant: Aerospace Week

This week in aerospace news: Safran Aerosystems invested US$7 million in a sixth plant in Chihuahua, Mexico, to boost production of evacuation systems and aircraft components. Embraer began assembling Mexicana’s first E195-E2 jet in Brazil, with delivery planned for July 2025 as part of the airline’s fleet renewal. Monterrey-based Viva and Aerus launched a codeshare agreement covering over 130 routes. Vertical Aerospace unveiled its long-range hybrid VX4 for defense and logistics. Qatar denied gifting Trump a US$400 million Boeing 747-8. The Soviet Kosmos 482 probe reentered Earth’s atmosphere after 53 years, and the Trump administration announced a major U.S. air traffic control modernization plan.

More news below:

Vertical Aerospace Develops Hybrid VX4 for Defense and Logistics

Vertical Aerospace announced it is developing a hybrid-electric variant of its VX4 aircraft, designed to extend operational range and payload capacity to meet the demands of defense, logistics, and commercial markets. The new aircraft is projected to achieve a range of up to 1,000 miles and a payload capacity of 1,100 kilograms—ten times the range of its all-electric predecessor.

Qatar Denies Gifting Trump US$400 Million Boeing 747-8 Luxury Jet

The US Department of Defense and Qatar’s Ministry of Defense of Qatar are evaluating the potential temporary transfer of a Boeing 747-8 jumbo jet to serve as a replacement for Air Force One during President Donald Trump’s second term. The aircraft, valued at approximately US$400 million, has raised legal and ethical concerns due to its origin and potential classification as a foreign gift.

Soviet Venus probe Kosmos 482 reenters Earth after 53 years

A Soviet spacecraft that remained in Earth orbit for over five decades reentered the atmosphere on May 10, 2025, likely disintegrating over the Indian Ocean, according to Russian space authorities and international monitoring agencies. The spacecraft, known as Kosmos 482, was launched in 1972 as part of the Soviet Venera program aimed at exploring Venus. However, a propulsion system failure prevented it from leaving Earth’s orbit.

Viva and Aerus Launch Codeshare, Offering Access to 130+ Routes

Viva and Aerus, both Monterrey-based airlines, have announced a new codeshare alliance enabling passengers to access over 130 routes, including 37 national and international destinations.

Safran Invests US$7 Million in 6th Chihuahua Plant

Safran Aerosystems, part of France’s Safran Group, has inaugurated its sixth manufacturing plant in Chihuahua, Mexico, following a US$7 million investment to expand the production of aircraft evacuation systems, electrical components, and business class seating. The 19,510m2 facility, located in the Supra Industrial Park, is expected to increase Safran’s output of emergency systems by 40% to meet growing demand from long-haul aircraft manufacturers Airbus and Boeing.

Trump Unveils Plan to Modernize US Air Traffic Control System

The Trump administration has announced a comprehensive plan to modernize the United States’ air traffic control (ATC) system, aiming to address aging infrastructure, severe staffing shortages, and outdated technology. The multi-year, multi-billion-dollar initiative was unveiled by US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy at a press conference, joined by the CEOs of United, American, Delta, JetBlue, and Southwest Airlines.

Embraer Assembles Mexicana’s First E195-E2, Delivery in July 2025

Mexicana’s fleet modernization is progressing as Embraer begins assembling the first of 20 new aircraft scheduled for delivery. The E195-E2 aircraft is currently in assembly at Embraer’s São José dos Campos facility in Brazil, with the first unit expected to be delivered by July 2025.