Why did Airbus pay Spirit AeroSystems €377M to take over 6 key sites?

Airbus has finalized a major transaction to absorb critical parts of its supply chain. The European manufacturer closed a deal with Spirit AeroSystems on December 8, 2025. This strategic move involves acquiring industrial assets dedicated to several key commercial aircraft programs.

The Strategic Acquisition Details

The transaction covers six major industrial sites and activities across four countries. These facilities produce critical aircraft structures for the A220, A320, A321, and A350 families. The goal is to bring key component manufacturing in-house. This action reduces Airbus's dependence on American and external suppliers.

In a unique financial arrangement, Airbus received compensation of $439 million (approximately €377 million) from Spirit AeroSystems. This payment was subject to customary post-closing adjustments. The compensation reflects Airbus taking ownership of assets tied to historically loss-making work packages.

Key Sites and Components Acquired

Airbus has integrated over 4,000 new employees into its operations. The acquired assets span the United States, France, Morocco, and the United Kingdom.

• Kinston, North Carolina, U.S.: Focuses on manufacturing A350 fuselage sections.
• Saint-Nazaire, France: Also produces A350 fuselage sections.
• Casablanca, Morocco: Manufactures components for the A321 and A220.
• Belfast, Northern Ireland (UK): Responsible for A220 wings and A220 mid-fuselage production.
• Prestwick, Scotland (UK): Builds wing components for both the A320 and A350 aircraft.
• Wichita, Kansas (U.S.) Activity: The production of A220 pylons will be transferred to Toulouse, France.

Impact on Commercial Aircraft Supply Chain

This move is a direct response to global aerospace supply chain disruptions. The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent bottlenecks exposed fragility in outsourced production. By absorbing these aerostructures manufacturing activities, Airbus gains tighter control. This improves the stability of supply for its high-volume commercial aircraft supply chain.

Airbus's in-sourcing strategy aims to secure the ramp-up of its most popular jets. The A320 family, including the A321, has a massive order backlog. Direct control over A220 A320 A350 components is vital to meet delivery schedules. This reduces the risk of quality control issues or delays from external partners.

This acquisition marks a significant shift in the aerospace industry. It highlights a trend of major manufacturers seeking to reduce supplier dependence. The deal allows Airbus to better manage its Airbus industrial footprint globally. It ensures a more sustainable path forward for key work packages. The move also allows Spirit AeroSystems to focus on its core business, primarily with Boeing.

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