Safran Helicopter Engines has opened a new facility in Norderstedt (Schleswig-Holstein), near Hamburg. This 3,000 sqm industrial site, dedicated to provide support, maintenance and repair services for helicopter engines, enables the company to support the growth of the helicopter market in Europe. The official opening took place in the presence of Claus Ruhe Madsen, Minister of Economics, Transport, Labour, Technology and Tourism of Schleswig-Holstein, alongside 200 customers, partners and institutional representatives.

Safran Helicopter Engines has been established in Germany for 35 years and provides in-service support to 300 helicopter operators in northern, eastern and central Europe, covering a fleet of 2,300 engines.

With its new site, Safran is able to offer its customers a range of support services for Arrius, Arriel and RTM322 engines, with local maintenance, spare parts storage capacity and 24/7 availability.

This new site, 50 per cent larger than the previous one, is targeting carbon neutrality in its operations through multiple initiatives such as photovoltaic panels, a green roof to absorb CO2, and energy-efficient systems including heat pumps and ventilation with heat recovery, while providing staff with the best possible working conditions.

The new facility now employs 80 people and was built with the support of EGNO (Entwicklungsgesellschaft Norderstedt) and the town of Norderstedt.

Cédric Goubet, CEO of Safran Helicopter Engines, states: “The launch of our new German site is essential for delivering the highest standard of proximity service and support to our customers in the region. The opening of this facility is a direct response to the strong growth in both the civil and military helicopter markets in Europe. It also strengthens German sovereignty by enhancing local expertise, particularly with the introduction of new helicopters into the German armed forces.”