Industry profile

The Aerospace Industry in Mexico

Mexico's aerospace industry comprises companies that manufacture, maintain, repair, adapt, engineer, design and provide auxiliary services (airlines, test labs, training centers, etc.), for commercial and military aircraft.

In Mexico, the aerospace industry is experiencing rapid growth. The level of exports tripled in only six years and in 2010 exports reached 3,266 million dollars, sustaining a 16.5% growth rate. Imports, on the other hand, reached 2,865 billion dollars in 2010, maintaining a positive trade balance.

Companies Established in Mexico

There are over 190 aerospace companies in Mexico, including leading firms such as Bombardier, Goodrich, Safran Group and Honeywell, employing over 30,000 workers.

Foreign Direct Investment

Globally, Mexico has become the most attractive investment country in aerospace manufacturing, and the sixth largest destination for research and development investments. This places the country in a relevant position as a Manufacturing and Innovation Center.

Strengths of Mexican Aerospace Industry

•Logistics Axis. Because of its geographic location, Mexico is the meeting place of two of North America's most important corridors in aerospace manufacturing. Its access to the Asian and European markets makes Mexico the logistics and aerospace manufacturing hub of the Americas.

•Experience. Mexico's experience and success in developing the automotive and electric-electronic industries generates an infrastructure and advanced manufacturing platform, favoring the development of the aerospace industry and enabling the optimization of supply chains, common support programs and synergic advantages.

•Reliability. Mexico is a trustworthy country in terms of intellectual property and the use of sensitive technologies for military applications. Five percent of total permits to manufacture high-tech military equipment for the United States were granted to Mexico. With Mexico's entry into international strategic trade groups, the capacity to attract dual-use high-tech projects will increase substantially.

•Competitive Costs. According to a KPMG study, Mexico is up to 22% more competitive than current industry leaders in terms of costs.

•Innovation. The large number of universities and research centers for advanced manufacturing and materials favors the development of innovation projects in the industry.

•Talent. According to ANUIES, more than 790 thousand students are enrolled in engineering and technology programs, representing the largest pool of engineering talent in America. Every year, more than 90 thousand students graduate from engineering and technology programs (more than three times the number of graduates per capita in the United States, according to UNESCO).

•Certified Quality. Mexico is one of the few countries with a bilateral agreement on mutual acknowledgement in the aeronautical certification systems, BASA (Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement), with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In addition, companies have certified their processes based on ISO - 9001, AS 9100 and NADCAP industry standards.