The value of Airbus work undertaken in Malaysia is set to increase by 25 per cent to over US$500 million by 2021, from US$400 million now.

The increase would come on the back of higher production rate for aircraft types worked on by suppliers such as Composites Technology Research Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Spirit Aerospace and Celestica.

This also included growth from local joint ventures including that of maintenance, repair and overhaul firm, Sepang Aircraft Engineering Sdn Bhd.

"We are committed to growing our presence in the coming years. (The work value), which is except China, by far the biggest procurement in Asia and it will only grow as our production is growing," Fabrice Bregier, President, Airbus Commercial Aircraft told a press conference here today.

"This is a recognition of the high quality of work undertaken by Malaysian companies and workers, the country's competitive cost base and its expertise in the aerospace engineering sector," he said.

The majority of the aeronautical supply chain in Malaysia works for Airbus "and we are proud of its growth."

"Made in Malaysia" parts fly on the entire Airbus civil aircraft product line (the A320 Family, A330neo, A350 XWB, and A380), as well as, the A400M military airlifter and the H130 helicopter.

Most recently, UMW Group was awarded a contract, via Rolls-Royce, for the production of fan cowls for the A330neo wide body.

In the services sector, Sepang-based SAE provides maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) solutions for single-aisle aircraft.

Also in Sepang, Airbus Customer Services delivers specialised aircraft engineering and repair services for the region.

Airbus' helicopter division offers pilot training and customer support from its facility in Subang, as well as, MRO services via a joint venture with Malaysian firm, Boustead.

Together with several Malaysian partners, Airbus was also undertaking research and technology projects that were looking into sustainable aviation and the factory of the future, said Fabrice.

Malaysia is Airbus's third largest market in the Asia-Pacific region after China and India, with customers across the product line.

More than 700 Airbus commercial aircraft have been ordered by airlines in the country.

Malaysia is also the first export customer for the A400M military airlifter, and over 100 Airbus helicopters are in service here.

"Beyond our commercial success, we are proud of the mutually beneficial smart partnerships that we have developed in Malaysia.

"We look forward to building on our established presence and working with the local industry to develop its technological expertise," he added. - BERNAMA