Airbus announces plans to build new greenfield factory in Toulouse

Airbus has announced plans to build a new factory in Toulouse to produce engine pylons for its jets. 

The new plant will be built on a 48-hectare (118-acre) greenfield site, already owned by Airbus, in the municipality of Cornebarrieu, close to Airbus’ main industrial complex adjacent to Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS). 

According to French media reports, the European aircraft manufacturer is expected to invest between €600 and €900 million in its new site, which could employ around 3,500 people towards 2037, when it will be operating at full capacity. 

The first step towards its construction will be the launch of a public consultation process, which will run between November 24, 2026, and February 16, 2027 (Airbus has also launched a dedicated website for this purpose). If the project successfully fulfills all planning and regulatory requirements, construction could begin around 2029, with the start of production envisaged for 2031. 

The investment is a response to the need to expand production in the face of strong market demand for new aircraft. In June 2026, Airbus activated a second assembly line in Toulouse for its A320 family aircraft at a site previously occupied by the A380 line.  

Another factor that may have been involved in the decision is the desire to keep the production of essential components close to the group’s main industrial facilities. Following its acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems assets in December 2025, Airbus announced its intention to move production of jet pylons for the A220 airliner from Wichita, Kansas, to Toulouse. 

“The objective of this project would be to modernise our industrial facilities, consolidate local expertise, and ensure the long-term future of our engine pylon manufacturing and maintenance activities for years to come. In accordance with the decision of the National Commission for Public Debate (CNDP), this project is subject to prior public consultation, which begins on November 24.” said an Airbus spokesperson in response to AeroTime’s questions about the project.

Airbus has given its planned new factory the name “Saint-Éloi du futur”, in reference to its historical “Saint-Éloi” plant, located in central Toulouse, which is also focused on the development and manufacture of jet engine pylons. The post Airbus announces plans to build new greenfield factory in Toulouse appeared first on AeroTime.

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