Airbus, a French aircraft manufacturer, is planning to build an A330 Completion and Delivery Center in Tianjin to take advantage of China's growing aviation sector.
Recently, Airbus signed a Letter of Intent with partners Tianjin Free Trade Zone and Aviation Industry Corporation of China for the establishment of the center, where completion phases such as aircraft painting, cabin installation, engine runs and aircraft delivery are to be done. According to the agreement, the passenger jets will be assembled in Toulouse, Airbus base, and then flown to Tianjin for completion.
With demand for air travel in China continuing to rise, the country's aviation sector is anticipated to grow from its current 1,000 aircraft to a five-fold of 5,300 aircraft by 2033. To date, there are over 1,000 Airbus jets being handled by Chinese operators.
The deal with Airbus and its Chinese partners follows the previous installation of the A320 Family Final Assembly Line and Delivery Center in Tianjin.
Both agreements were signed to aid in the rapid progress and expansion of aerial traffic in China using bigger aircraft.
"In its 30 year history the Airbus partnership with China keeps on growing and expanding. The intended establishment of an A330 Completion and Delivery Center will add a new exciting chapter to our longstanding track record of mutual achievements," said Airbus CEO and president Fabrice Bregier.
The A330 Family includes five in-service aircraft members: the A330-200, the A330-300, the A330-200F, the ACJ330 and the A330 MRTT. All A330 aircraft are equipped with a twin-type engine, which boasts low operating costs while being highly efficient. The A330 model can seat between 250 and 300 passengers.