France, India to develop aeronautics cluster

France and India will develop an aeronautics cluster as part of efforts to boost bilateral cooperation in aerospace sector, French ambassador to India Thierry Mathou said on Monday.

Speaking at a meet organized by the French Aerospace Industries Association (GIFAS) in New Delhi, Mathou said the Indo-French bilateral partnership  “is strategic and universal,” with both countries sharing long-standing relationships in aerospace, defense, and other sectors.

At least 55% of Indian imports from France are from the aeronautical sector, Mathou said, adding that in the first six months of 2024, French aerospace companies exported aeronautical products worth €2.7 billion to India.

Mathou said both countries will develop an aeronautic cluster and an Indo-French campus for aeronautics and space, and added that the French government is working with the civil aviation ministry on the cluster.

The French envoy also said his country would support the Indian goal of decarbonizing transport by developing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Civil aviation minister K. Rammohan Naidu said India and France could collaborate to create a robust SAF supply chain.

Airbus to step up sourcing from India

During the summit, Airbus chief executive officer Guillaume Faury said the aircraft manufacturer would increase sourcing components from India, which offers plenty of opportunities.

IndiGo and Air India have placed orders for aircraft with Airbus as both airlines are going ahead with their expansion plans to meet rising air passenger demand.

GIFAS brings together over 482 French companies, from main prime contractors and system suppliers to small and medium businesses and startups.

The French delegation, comprising 100 representatives representing 60 companies associated with GIFAS, is on an India visit from 7-10 October.

India hosts over 60 GIFAS member-companies currently operating at 30 industrial sites.