AUCKLAND, New Zealand, 23 June 2015. Officials at aerospace company Airbus Group Australia Pacific have grown the business with the acquisition of Safe Air, a provider of aviation maintenance, repair, overhaul (MRO), design, and manufacturing services. The transaction expands Airbus Group’s standing as a regional integrated through-life support provider.
Airbus Group Australia Pacific, part of Airbus Helicopters and Airbus Group, finalized the deal with Air New Zealand, Safe Air’s former owners. From 1 July 2015, Safe Air will become an integrated part of Airbus Group Australia Pacific, retaining its name, staff, and operations in Blenheim, Ohakea, Auckland, and Melbourne.
Commenting on the acquisition, Dr. Jens Goennemann Managing Director Airbus Group Australia Pacific spoke of the natural fit between the two companies:
“Airbus Group Australia Pacific and Safe Air are old friends and business partners, having previously worked successfully together on a number of programs. Bringing Safe Air into the Airbus Group has long been a goal of ours as its capabilities, both technical and personnel, are complementary to those of Airbus Group and will enhance our position in the region.
“As the outgoing Managing Director of Airbus Group Australia Pacific, this is the last item to cross off my list; to strengthen the base in New Zealand upon which our business can grow. And as a relatively newly confirmed Australian citizen I am delighted to have been able to play a part in the formation of this new Trans-Tasman partnership.”
Safe Air has capability with Rolls Royce T56 and Pratt & Whitney engines, C-130 and P3 Orion airframes, propeller repair and overhaul, as well as helicopter expertise.
Airbus Group Australia Pacific is a part of Airbus Group, a global provider of aerospace and defense related services whose companies include Airbus, Airbus Helicopters, and Airbus Defense and Space.
Wholly owned by Airbus Helicopters, Airbus Group Australia Pacific represents Airbus Group in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific and is the region’s largest helicopter manufacturer, employing more than 1400 people across 15 sites in Australia and New Zealand. With the largest market share in civilian and military helicopters, the company supports more than 500 Airbus Helicopters and is well recognized as a leading through-life support provider in military fixed-wing and helicopter platforms.
