Daher opens new support and logistics facility in France
The facility's broad capabilities include workshops for composite airframe repair, painting, welding, landing gear hydraulics, battery overhaul and Level 2 non-destructive testing.
Daher has opened a new spare parts, maintenance, equipment overhaul and logistics centre in western France.
The new facility expands support capabilities for aircraft ranging from helicopters and training airplanes to legacy general aviation types built by its predecessor companies.
“This inauguration marks another important step in Daher Aircraft’s commitment to further strengthening our global support Network and the comprehensive services it provides,” said Nicolas Chabbert, CEO of Daher Aircraft. “Today’s milestone also is an opportunity to recognise the commitment of Claude Belot and the Communauté des Communes de Haute Saintonge, whose support has been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.”
The facility occupies a purpose-built 6,000sqm (64,500sqft) building at Jonzac-Neulles Airport in France’s Charente-Maritime Department, replacing Daher Aircraft’s previous Merpins operation, located 25km (15.5miles) to the north.
The new facility’s direct access to Jonzac-Neulles Airport’s 1,370m runway also opens new opportunities for on-aircraft maintenance and technical support, according to Daher.
Construction of the new building was undertaken by the Communauté des Communes de Haute Saintonge under the leadership of then-president Claude Belot. He was present at the inauguration event alongside Christophe Cabri, current president of the Communauté des Communes de Haute Saintonge and mayor of Jonzac; together with other elected officials and government representatives.
The center provides a diverse portfolio of logistics, repair and overhaul services – performed under direct contract, as well as a services supplier – for aircraft ranging from Airbus-built helicopters flown by the French Gendarmerie to Cirrus and Grob airplanes used in pilot training.
Another key activity is the continued support of the approximately 3,000 general aviation and training aircraft produced by Daher Aircraft’s SOCATA predecessor in the TB and Rallye families. Such services include spare parts supply, repair and the manufacture of replacement parts under the company’s Part 21J Design Organization Approval.
The facility’s broad capabilities include workshops for composite airframe repair, painting, welding, landing gear hydraulics, battery overhaul and Level 2 non-destructive testing.
A team of 32 people, transferred from Daher’s previous operation in Merpins, ensure continuity of expertise, service and customer support, according to the company. The workforce is expected to increase to about 40 later this year.