IMPACT REPORT
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Despite the uncertainty the COVID-19 pandemic brought to the global aerospace sector, the local industry continues recovering and Mexico remains an attractive destination for local and foreign aerospace investment. As international air traffic gradually returns to pre-pandemic figures and domestic traffic thrives, Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) began operations to ease the oversaturation at Mexico City International Airport and reduce delays. While commercial aviation recovers, air cargo faces major disruptions due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the e-commerce boom, among other problems. Meanwhile, industrial companies continue advancing toward more sophisticated processes to meet the big players’ demands despite ongoing global supply chain strains, further straining air cargo. Amid these turbulent times, local and international industry leaders joined the conversation at Mexico Aerospace Forum 2022 to discuss the main trends, challenges and opportunities that the aviation and aerospace industries are facing. The aerospace sector has increasingly played a larger role within Mexico’s economy, expanding to more states and creating jobs and business opportunities across the country. On April 27-29, 2022, experts from both the public and private sectors discussed the current state of the aerospace industry in Mexico, from AIFA, Queretaro’s aerospace potential and airline-airport synergies to the supply chain of the future, commercial aviation trends and opportunities in air cargo.
4
C onf e r e nc e I mpact
121
Breakdown by job title
companies
419
conference participants
17% CEO/CFO/Country Manager 54% Manager/Director 08% President/VP/ Partners 21% Analist/Engineer/ Executives
56
speakers
03
sponsors
2710
visitors to the conference website
Conference social media impact
Pre-conference social media impact
7,494 direct impressions during MAF 2.86% click through rate during MAF 7.469% conference engagement rate
14,867 direct pre-conference LinkedIn impressions 2.99% pre-conference click through rate 10.448% pre-conference engagement rate
Mexico’s leading B2B conference organizer introduces the world’s leading event networking platform. Delivering intent-based matchmaking powered by Artificial Intelligence that connects the right people. Network, no matter where you are.
155
Matchmaking intentions
participants
425
matchmaking communications
542 Trading Total
940
229 Networking 81 Investment 88 Recruitment
44
1:1 meetings conducted
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C ompan y Att e ndanc e •
A.E. Petsche Company
•
AAFI
•
Able industrial products
•
ADDEV MATERIALS
•
Aernnova
•
Aeroasset
•
Aerocharter
•
Aerocluster de Querétaro
•
Aeromexico
•
•
Delegacion general de Quebec en México
•
Polymershapes
•
PPG Aerospace
•
Delta Air Lines
•
Pragmatic
•
DHS INTERNATIONAL
•
•
Embajada de Bélgica/ AWEX México
Procesos Control Numérico Computarizado S.A. de C.V.
•
PROEESA
•
Embajada de Hungría
•
•
Embassy of Belgium to Mexico
Quality Aeronautical Engineering Consultants
•
Questum
AERONODO, SAPI, S.A. DE C.V.
•
ESCUELA DE VUELO CAP. OMAR TAPIA MARQUEZ
•
RER Energy Group
•
RX Global
•
Aeropilot
•
Facultad de Medicina, UNAM
•
Safran
•
Aeroprocess TTT
•
FAMEX
•
•
Aeropuerto Intercontinental de Querétaro, SA de CV
•
FedEx Express México
•
FEMIA
Salem & Associates Aeronautical Consulting Group
•
Aeropuerto Internacional Felipe Ángeles, S.A. de C.V.
•
FUMEC
•
•
G100 Desarrollos
•
Aeropuertos y Servicios Auxiliares
•
GE Infrastructure Queretaro
•
•
AEXA
Gobierno de Ontario en México
Secretaría de Desarrollo Sustentable del Poder Ejecutivo del Estado de Querétaro
•
SEDECO EDOMEX
•
Air France KLM
•
Grupo Prodensa
•
SEDESU
•
Air France KLM Cargo
•
grupo xenon
•
SITA
•
Airbus Americas, Inc
•
GTO Automotive
•
•
Airbus SLC
•
Helmut Fischer
•
Airworthy, Inc.
•
Horizontec SAPI de cv
Soluciones Tecnológicas Térmicas Nitrex Querétaro S De RL De CV
•
Allied Tool & Die
•
HT-MX Heat Treat & HIP
•
SPACELAB
•
Altair
•
IATA
•
•
AMBE Engineering
•
Infor
SUMe, Sustentabilidad para México
•
ASESA MRO, S.A DE C.V.
•
Innocentro
•
Swiss Business Hub
•
Axon’ Cable
•
INNOVA 2 ELEVATE
•
TAR Aerolineas
•
Azul PR
•
Inxeniux Creative Technology
•
TE Connectivity
•
Brella Ltd
•
IRS Technology
•
Teague
•
Business Intelligence Group
•
ITA
•
Techman-Head
•
CBQ GLOBAL LLC
•
JeffreyGroup
•
Tecnológico de Monterrey/ Nanotechnology and Devices Design Research Group, P.I.
•
Tecnológico Nacional de México
•
CLEANLAB SOLUTIONS
•
KAMAN AEROSPACE
•
Cluster Aeroespacial de Baja California
•
Kayak
•
KPMG México
•
COMCE - Mexican Business Council for Foreign Trade, Investment and Technology
•
Laser & Manufacturing
•
Laserkasky
•
TEST
•
LAVARTEX
•
Thrusters Unlimited
•
CONACYT
•
Leach International Mexico
•
UAT FI-UNAM
•
CONICSO S.A.S
•
LH Cargo / LCSLM
•
•
Consejo Aeroespacial de Jalisco A.C.
•
M Aerospace RTC
Universidad Aeronáutica en Querétaro
•
Makinovo
•
Consultoría de Imagen Pública y Política
•
MB
Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua
•
MBN
•
UPMH
CORPORATIVO ULTRA DE MEXICO
•
Metal Finishing
•
Viva Air
•
Mexico Business
•
WASHTECH S.A. de C.V.
•
Yuma Engineering
• • •
Cramex Aerospace
•
N1 Capital
•
DB Schenker
•
Nitto Denko
•
DECSEF
•
NYX
6
P rogram D ay 1
09:00
ONE WAY TICKET TO THE FUTURE OF COMMERCIAL AVIATION
Moderator: José Ricardo Botelho, ALTA Panelists: Félix Antelo, Viva Air Group Giancarlo Mulinelli, Aeroméxico Ricardo Bastón, TAR Aerolíneas 10:00
PASSENGER EXPERIENCE IN THE POST-COVID-19 ERA
Moderator: Alicia Arizpe, Mexico Business News Panelists: Livier Bustos, Delta Airlines Filipe Pereira, ALTA Anthony Harcup, Teague Lise Vives, Kayak en México Guilhem Mallet, Air France KLM Group in Mexico 11:00
NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY
12:00
COMMERCIAL AIRPLANES: TECHNOLOGY TRENDS SHAPING TOMORROW’S VALUE PROPOSITION
Moderator: Abraham Sarraf, Airworthy Panelists: Amanda Simpson, Airbus José Enrique Román, Boeing Research and Technology Maurilio Albanese Novaes Junior, Embraer 13:00
TOWARDS MORE RESILIENT, DYNAMIC AEROSPACE SUPPLY CHAINS
Moderator: René Espinosa, FEMIA Panelists: Alberto Robles, General Electric Aviation Roberto Corral, Innocentro Eugenio Marín, FUMEC Jatziri Barrios, Turboparts Specialists ETU-Aerospace 14:00
NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY
15:00
MEXICO’S ROLE IN THE AEROSPACE SUPPLY CHAIN OF TOMORROW
Moderator: Tomás Sibaja, Baja Aerospace Cluster Panelists: Luis Carlos Ramírez, Chihuahua Aerospace Cluster Claire Barnouin, Monterrey Aerospace Cluster Antonio Velázquez, Queretaro Aerospace Cluster Alejandro Arredondo, Bajio Aerospace Cluster 16:00
QUERETARO’S AEROSPACE COMPETITIVENESS
Speaker: Marco Antonio Del Prete, SEDESU Queretaro 16:15
QUERETARO POTENTIAL AS AN AEROSPACE POWERHOUSE
Moderator: Carlos Robles, AMBE Engineering LLC Panelists: Enrique Sosa, UNAQ Jorge Gutiérrez de Velasco, AIQ Juan Carlos Corral, Queretaro Aerospace Cluster Marco Antonio Del Prete, SEDESU Queretaro 17:00
THE FUTURE OF FAMEX 2023
Speaker: Gen. Javier Sandoval Dueñas, FAMEX 2023
7
P R O G R A M D AY 2
09:00
WHAT CAN THE AVIATION INDUSTRY EXPECT FROM FELIPE ÁNGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT?
Speaker: Colonel Alain Reynaldo Solana Arévalo, AIFA 09:30
AIRLINES & AIRPORTS: SYNERGIES FOR GROWTH
Moderator: Carlos Campillo, Alegre, Calderón y Márquez Abogados SC Panelists: Ricardo Dueñas, Grupo OMA Jorge Gutiérrez de Velasco, AIQ Gen. Isidro Pastor Román, AIFA Mauricio Arellano Villavicencio, ASA 10:30
OPPORTUNITIES IN AN ERA OF CARGO DISRUPTIONS
Moderator: Frank Nozinsky, Lufthansa Cargo Panelists: Jorge L. Torres, FedEx Express México Guillaume Marsoin, Air France KLM Martinair Cargo Luis Ramos, Aerocharter Luis Sierra, MAS Air 11:30
NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY
12:30
HOW TO CAPITALIZE ON MEXICO’S MRO OPPORTUNITIES
Speaker: Jorge Vega Cleto, ASESA MRO 13:00
HYDROGEN AIRCRAFT: THE NEXT STEP IN SUSTAINABILITY
Speaker: Damien Sternchuss, Airbus Latin America and the Caribbean 13:30
HALCÓN 2: AIRPLANE DESIGNED AND MANUFACTURED IN MEXICO
Speaker: Giovanni Angelucci, Horizontec 13:45
INSIDE STORY OF HALCÓN 2: FIRST MADE-IN-MEXICO AIRPLANE IN 70 YEARS
Moderator: Antonio Salem, Salem & Associates Aeronautical Consulting Group Panelists: Humberto Montaño Valdez, Horizontec Edgar Martínez Ortega, Horizontec Rigoberto Sánchez Vivar, Horizontec Giovanni Angelucci, Horizontec 14:30
NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY
15:00
ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY: A NEW FRONTIER IN AVIATION
Speaker: Antonio Campello, INNOVA 2 ELEVATE 15:30
AEROSPACE WORKFORCE OF THE FUTURE
Moderator: Enrique Sosa, UNAQ Panelists: Salvador Landeros Ayala, Mexican Space Agency Ana Molina, Airbus Helicopters México, Querétaro Efraín Pérez, Safran 16:30
ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY: A NEW FRONTIER IN AVIATIONS
Speaker: Luis Gerardo Lizcano, FEMIA
8
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights ONE WAY TICKET TO THE FUTURE OF COMMERCIAL AVIATION The pandemic brought challenges but also
4Q20. The airline “will continue to expand
growth opportunities to the aerospace
operations safely in the coming months,
sector and, although Mexico’s aviation
in accordance with local regulations and
industry has seen a fast recovery from the
customer demand and in full compliance
COVID-19 pandemic, there are still numerous
with the highest standards and protocols,”
obstacles ahead, agreed industry experts.
said Aeroméxico in its 4Q20 report.
“Colombia-Mexico is the fastest growing region in the world. This is because both countries faced the pandemic the best possible way they could, considering that there was no government support”
Felix Antelo President and CEO | Viva Air Group
Aside from the COVID-19 crisis, the Ukraine conflict is delaying the industry’s recovery by increasing fuel prices and hur ting economies. These trends could further delay the sector’s recovery from the pandemic and change the future of commercial aviation. “The world is reopening and traveling limitations are dropping; we will see a traveling boom,” said Antelo. In the future
While the slowdown in travel was widespread,
of aviation, Mexico will be an attractive
the effects of the pandemic hit regions and
destination despite the growing competition
airlines differently. For example, Viva Air
but high fuel prices and the shortage of
Group experienced an unexpected growth in
qualified professionals could hamper the
operations after the outbreak of the COVID-19.
growth of the industry in Latin America.
The airline now has 60 percent more
Consumers, on the other hand, are
passengers than it did before the sanitary
benefiting because it has never been less
crisis and was the only Colombian airline
expensive to fly.
that did not file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. In Sep. 2020, Viva Air restarted
Giancarlo Mulinelli, Senior Vice President,
operations as an entirely different company,
Global Sales, Aeroméxico, forecasts a
explained Felix Antelo, President and CEO,
promising future for the region because
Viva Air Group. It now flies to 45 domestic
Asians and Europeans are increasing their
destinations and 15 international ones. The
visits to Latin America. “We are in a very
fast recovery of Colombia’s aviation industry
unique position as a region to capture that
mirrors the one Mexico is experiencing.
traffic,” he said. Corporate traveling is also expected to bounce back and vaccine
“Colombia-Mexico is the fastest growing
tourism will remain in the spotlight. In the
region in the world. This is because both
future of commercial aviation, Aeroméxico
countries faced the pandemic the best
“wants to develop economies, bring job
possible way they could, considering that
opportunities and make a positive impact
there was no government support,” said
for everybody,” added Mulinelli.
Antelo. According to Ricardo Bastón, Chief Executive Officer, TAR Aerolineas, in Mexico
For years, technology has been an important
the lack of government support prompted
ally of the aviation industry, which can now
the industry to work together during the
help it recover and transform. “It has never
crisis. For TAR, connectivity was essential
been easier to interact with an airline,” said
in enduring the pandemic, said Bastón.
Antelo. Viva Air Group has taken advantage of the acceleration in digitalization amid the
Aeromexico, for its par t, repor ted an
COVID-19 pandemic. The group launched
increase in revenue of 114.3 percent in 4Q21
a WhatsApp channel to offer its services,
versus 4Q20. Its passenger traffic, however,
b e co m e m o re re s p o n s i ve a n d l owe r
fell 4.8 percent in the period compared to
costs. After the pandemic, costumers are
9
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights increasingly demanding faster and simpler
each other, he added. For that reason, the
processes, which is why the airline heavily
airline was the first in Colombia to go back
invested in a new website that has improved
to the office and currently, it continues to
its services.
advocate for a hybrid model. Furthermore, he warns that the transition to full digital
“Now customers like to fully have control
models will lead to the loss of 15 to 20
and the pandemic has made people less
percent of corporate traffic.
tolerant,” said M ulinelli. To face this , Aeroméxico has invested in self-service
To increase traffic, airlines should also
tools and B2B platforms. It also improved
look to improving passenger experience
its Club Premier program, bringing more
and rely on technology to improve cost
benefits to users . The airline aims to
management. The use of biometrics will
continue innovating to simplify travel by
become widespread, with China and the
putting its clients at the center.
Middle East already implementing them in their traveling processes, said Bastón.
While interconnection has brought several
He also highlighted the importance of
benefits for passengers, it also posed
using sustainable aviation fuels (SAF)
challenges to the industry, said Antelo.
and emerging transportation alternatives.
Regardless of the advantages that the
“Innovation is positive and, as an industry,
connection that the online platforms offer,
we are all taking advantage of it,”
to build culture, people must interact with
said Bastón.
IMPROVING PASSENGER EXPERIENCE COULD DRIVE RECOVERY COVID-19 lockdowns were some of the
to travel again. During 2021 aviation and
greatest challenges the aviation industry
tourism started to pick up but full recovery
faced in modern history. Two years after the
has been unequal between regions. To
start of the pandemic, with vaccination rates
keep adapting to both uncertainty and
increasing globally and travel restrictions
higher user experience standards, airlines
slowly decreasing, the aviation industry is
and airports have made their policies more
beginning to recover while it keeps adapting
flexible and have relied on technology to
to the uncertainty that continues permeating
ease passengers’ fears and facilitate travel
the sector. Besides recovering the lost
while keeping them protected.
passenger traffic, airlines must also deal with more demanding customers, who are looking
Domestic travel within countries has shown
for expediency, comfort and safety.
the strongest recovery. During the past 18 months, the US Transportation Security
After lockdowns and travel restrictions put
Administration (TSA) reports that domestic
the aviation industry on hold during 2020,
travel has recovered and is approaching
the industry has recovered as restrictions
its pre-COVID levels. Delta Airlines, for
ease and passengers are increasingly willing
example, expects to see a 90 percent recovery during 2022 for its US domestic
“The airport or the airline is not the issue. The issue is the uncertainty during the entire process that begins when you start planning your trip. This is what creates anxiety before and during travel”
Anthony Harcup Senior Director of Airline Experience | Teague
leisure flights, said Livier Bustos, General Manager Mexico, Delta Airlines. However, corporate travel is a different story, with Delta reporting that these flights remain at only 50 percent from 2019 levels. Business travel is expected to star t recovering at a faster pace af ter 2 H2 2, as more workers head back to the office, which will eventually lead to the reactivation of business travel, said Bustos.
10
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights International flights are still reeling from
business capacity to create incentives for
th e un ce r taint y c a use d by COVI D -1 9
certain market segments that are currently
tr ave l re s tr i c ti o n s a n d th e p ote nti a l
n ot d oin g co rp o rate trave l , a llowin g
emergence of new COVID-19 variants and
potential flyers to use business class tickets
lockdowns. With vaccination rates and
for leisure travel, said Guilhem Mallet,
travel restrictions varying from country
General Manager, Air France-KLM Group
to country, passengers remain exposed to
in Mexico.
last-minute changes in their travel plans. “The airport or the airline is not the issue.
In the reac tivation of international
The issue is the uncertainty during the
travel, governments play a crucial role.
entire process that begins when you start
With diverse health policies and travel
planning your trip. This is what creates
restrictions, mobility remains complex
anxiety before and during travel,” said
for inte rnational passe nge rs , leading
Anthony Harcup, Senior Director of Airline
industr y associations to approach
Experience, Teague. To adapt, regain trust
governments to simplify and align these
in traveling and face volatility, Harcup
diverse requirements. For example, the
suggests alliances with travel agencies,
International Air Transport Association
which offer comfort and reassurance to
( I ATA ) w o r k s w i t h g o v e r n m e n t s t o
customers during unpredictable changes.
convince them that the implementation
Travel agencies are now being used by 33
of easier, simple and more aligned travel
percent of travelers.
requirements that are integrated to global best practices will incentivize passengers
Passengers’ changes in travel behavior
to travel internationally again. “Dealing
can also bring opportunities for airlines.
with health authorities was never at the
With business travel on hold, passengers
center of the aviation industry operation
who were used to traveling in business
until the pandemic. We had to learn their
class are now looking for more comfort
d yn a m i c s a n d d rive r s to co ll a b o rate
when traveling on their own. Airlines have
together,” said Filipe Pereira, Regional
seen a sharp rising demand for premium
Director, the Americas Airport, Passenger,
economy seats, making them consistently
Cargo and Security, IATA. Collaboration
overbooked, notes Harcup. Some airlines,
with governments remains key for the
such as Air France-KLM , are using its
sector’s reactivation.
11
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights Policies implemented by airlines are crucial
to reactivate,” said Lise Vives, Country
to their recovery as they can improve
Manager, Kayak Mexico.
passenger experience throughout the entire process. “Removing most change
As the world begins to overcome COVID-19,
fees in the face of unpredictable travel
the goal in the aviation industry is to get
restrictions helps gain trust back from
passengers to fly again, as it is essential
travelers,” said Bustos.
for economic recovery. Restrictions and uncertainty may remain in the short term
However, diverse policies and options
so both airlines and passengers will have
increase complexity for passengers when
to keep adapting to changing realities. As
planning their trips. “The pandemic pushed
countries and regions cease restrictions
airlines to adapt and change their policies,
for mobility and leisure, passengers will
making it hard for passengers to keep up.
increasingly resume their travel plans.
Now passengers have more responsibility
With the implementation of all the lessons
than before to be very well informed,
learned in the past two years, increased
here is where developing technology to
flexibility, exceptional customer service
facilitate the process and understanding
and technology will help the aviation
of options becomes relevant for air travel
industry to recover.
SUSTAINABILITY, TECH, TALENT SHAPING COMMERCIAL AVIATION Te c h , s u p p l y c h a i n c o n t i n u i t y a n d
the integration of novel technologies
sustainability are shaping aviation into a
such as artificial intelligence (AI) will be
resilient, value-based industry. As they
fundamental to optimize the operations
recover from the COVID -19 pandemic,
and processes and make the most of our
commercial airlines are jumping into
resources and time,” said Novaes. AI ,
digitalization, sustainable practices and a
coupled with other technologies, will enable
self-sufficient supply chain for a long-term
autonomous flights, air frames, hybrid
successful business.
processes and electric proportions, among other technologies, he added. “Autonomous
Net-zero emission flights are one of the
flight technology will be an industr y
main objectives for commercial airlines,
disruptor that will force us to reimagine the
said Maurílio Albanese Novaes Júnior, Chief
way we fly,” Novaes said.
Technology Officer, Embraer. The Brazilian OEM expects to achieve this goal by 2050
“In the short term, AI will play a central
in line with the Paris Agreement to limit
role in increasing safety. However, initial
global warming to 1.5°C. “In this process,
applications should be monitored carefully
12
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights until we are 100 percent sure about the results
by MBN. The company also committed
of increased automation,” said Amanda
to d e live r com m e rcial airpla n es th at
Simpson, Vice President of Research and
are capable of flying using 100-percent
Technology, Airbus. But the process goes
SAFs by 2030.
beyond operation. In manufacture, AI will determine sustainable processes but the
Changes in the aerospace industry take
human factor is responsible for correctly
between 10 and 15 years to be used in
nourishing AI algorithms, she explained.
commercial aviation, according to Simpson.
“For the industry to feel comfortable and
For that reason, companies are already late
safe, we have to be aware of the data that
to introduce their modifications to achieve
will enable predictivity,” said Simpson.
the 2050 net-zero goals . “And in this process, we need to, as an industry, have
Fleet renewal is another subject where AI
clear long-term future plans. What do we
can support companies in their journey
want the next aviation generation to look
to sustainability. Boeing, for example, is
like? Because these goals will change our
leading the fleet renewal trend as it aims
supply chains,” Simpson said.
to introduce more sustainable planes to reduce f uel usage and noise, said
For instance, Airbus made it a priority to
José Enrique Román, Vice President of
reach net-zero emission flights in part
Global Technology, Boeing Research and
through its initiative ZEROe, which involves
Technology. One of the company’s latest
the launch of the world’s first zero-emission,
achievements in this regard was the largest
hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft
purchase of sustainable aviation fuels
by 2035. But to be able to successfully
(SAF) for commercial airplanes, which is an
implement this measure globally, “we need
immediate solution that will help achieve
to have the necessary infrastructure. Thus,
the industry’s long-term commitment to
airports have to offer the right conditions for
net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
these operations and for the clean energy flights we aim to implement in the future,”
“In the short term, AI will play a central role in increasing safety. However, initial applications should be monitored carefully until we are 100 percent sure about the results of increased automation”
Amanda Simpson Vice President of Research and Technology | Airbus
said Simpson. The OEM is also studying solar-powered flights, which could be done using advanced photovoltaic solar panels. These panels are lighter, more flexible and capable of capturing more energy per square meter while harnessing solar energy into a rechargeable energy storage system. Talent shortages are another urgent subject to address for this industry. “Our careers are no longer attractive and as an industry,
“But beyond this change, as long as we
we need to join forces to continue bringing
integrate tech, more benefits will permeate
STEM to the educational system at an early
operations and traffic management systems
stage,” Román said. But to efficiently invest
for these fleets, which will optimize fuel
in the development of human capital, the
use by creating direct routings and help
industry “needs to be more human and
customers optimize planning,” said Román.
work ethically to promote teamwork and make this industry attractive. This is an
Boeing achieved net-zero manufacturing
investment in humans beyond math and
p ro ce s se s a n d wo rk site s in 2 02 0 by
physics,” said Novaes.
expanding conservation and renewable energy use, while tapping responsible
While the strategies are both numerous
off set s fo r g re e n h o u se g a s e missio n
and diverse, the best way to tackle industry
manage me nt, as previously re por te d
challenges is an “all the above” adoption
13
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights process, said Román. “Tech, sustainability,
the aerospace sector. Nonetheless, “we
collaboration and human talent all matter
need to face these disruptions with the
equally. We have to prioritize all these areas
min dset of p ossible opp or tunities to
to overcome the impact of the pandemic
design and change the way we fly, as
while avoiding a sustainability crisis,”
well as to collaborate to grow together
Román said.
and contribute to our passengers and the environment,” said Abraham Sarraf,
Sustainability, net-zero flights and other
Vice President Sales and Business
m e g a tre n d s wi l l co n ti n u e to d i s r u pt
Development, Airworthy.
TOWARDS MORE RESILIENT, DYNAMIC AEROSPACE SUPPLY CHAINS COVID-19 came to shake well-established
to Marín. In previous times, clusters were not
supply chains and the Ukraine-Russia conflict
as fast to cooperate with each other, which
further complicated the logistics sector,
reduced the value they brought to the supply
affecting numerous manufacturing industries
chain. Now, clusters are working together to
including aerospace. To face this situation,
get and train talent to remain prepared for the
adaptability is key to a dynamic and resilient
demands of foreign companies that want to
supply chain that can keep the sector moving
invest in Mexico.
forward. But, the only way to build these resilient, adaptive supply chains is through
Collaboration is the name of the game, said
collaboration, agree industry experts.
Alberto Robles, Strategic Supply Chain Manager, General Electric Aviation. In the
Aerospace clusters in Mexico and abroad
past, aerospace was not considered to be
are playing an essential role in boosting
essential so the sector focused on lobbying
the recovery of the aerospace industry.
to advocate for the industry. Through more
Clusters around the world have supported
strategic partnerships among industry
manufacturers, helping them to integrate
clusters and FEMIA, the industry is gradually
within supply chains. Academia, OEMs
removing the obstacles to help the industry
and Tier 1 companies have also been allies
keep moving forward. “We need to work
during this process, leading players to tackle
closer with our allies. We are competing
challenges through joint ventures. One of
with emerging regions in the world and we
the key factors that have boosted the role
ought to start looking for opportunities,”
of clusters is communication, which will also
said Robles.
be essential for future growth in Mexico. “Communication and integration of domestic
Meanwhile, more aggressive strategies are
clusters will be a revolutionary practice for
being implemented while supply chains
Mexico’s aviation sector,” said Eugenio Marín,
are being diversified to avoid shortages.
CEO, FUMEC.
Moreover, some companies are starting to incorporate new materials and rely more
“Creating a resilient supply chain is like acquiring an insurance policy: it represents a cost but it is better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it”
Carlos Robles
on technology. “We are busier now, have good financial planning and we have shifted to digitalization,” said Roberto Corral, President, Innocentro. For the acceleration of adaptability, technology was crucial. This has been a huge leap for companies, which are now pouring investment into tech, said Marín.
President and Head of Aerospace | AMBE Engineering LLC
The experience of all actors during the pa n d e mic va rie d wid e ly, as did th eir Clusters are taking an even more important
adaptation strategies . Innocentro, for
role in Mexico’s aerospace industry, according
example, became a hybrid company to
14
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights
have a broader reach while keeping in
and quickly recover. “Creating a resilient
touch with employees. During this period,
supply chain is like acquiring an insurance
the company also embraced new work
policy: it represents a cost but it is better to
models that allowed employees to increase
have it and not need it than to need it and
productivity and satisfaction. “Becoming
not have it,” said Robles.
a hybrid company helped our team stay motivated and continue posting brilliant
Transparency and information sharing
results. We thought that if the company
throughout the supply chain are immediate
helped its employees work better from
ac tions companies c an implement to
home, this work model could turn into an
mitigate hidden risks. They should also
asset,” said Corral.
diversif y their supply portfolio, create and protect supply networks and develop
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
b u sin e s s co ntin uit y p la n s . M o re ove r,
underwent a more challenging process.
o r g a n iz a t i o n s m u s t b e i m m e r s e d i n
SMEs faced a disproportionate challenge
forecasting and consider all the upcoming
in adapting their processes and only those
challenges. “What if?” questions should be
that have moved with agility have survived.
answered to avert catastrophic outcomes.
“SMEs underwent quite a journey. It is
Mexico, in particular, must start investing
important to recognize those who thrived
in advanced manufacturing. “ We must
through this period of uncertainty. We did
look at the future and work towards that,”
not know what was coming or how long
said Robles.
it would take to pass. As a manufacturing company, the recovery has come with a lot
As the COVID-19 havoc is not over yet, the
of challenges such as the political global
sector must be prepared. “The pandemic is
context,” said Jatziri Barrios, Director
not over; we need to be ready for another
Turboparts Specialists, ETU-Aerospace.
outbreak. Moreover, the Ukraine war has destabilized operations. Mexico needs to
Although the sec tor is recovering ,
be ready and develop its capabilities. The
companies must implement strategies to
country has an opportunity to join the big
build more resilient supply chains that can
leagues if we work together to close gaps
handle future shocks. Supply chains must be
and invest in innovation and technology,”
prepared to endure highly disruptive events
said Barrios.
MEXICO TO CONSOLIDATE ITS ROLE IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN OF TOMORROW International supply chains have been
COVID-19. The aerospace supply chain is no
challenged by raw material shortages,
exception. As the global economy recovers
logistics delays and reduced capacity due to
from the shock of the pandemic, supply
15
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights chains in all industries are rebuilding. Mexico
will need and encourage youth to pursue
is in an interesting position in the international
STEM careers, which will nurture Mexico’s
aerospace supply chain and consolidating it
competitiveness in strategic industries,”
could bring further economic growth, social
said Ramírez.
development and technological innovation. To do so, Mexico needs to tackle certain
“ Specialized human resources are
challenges.
fundamental. Those involved in the supply chain need a specific skill set and research
To improve its competitiveness in the
capabilities that can ignite and foster
aerospace supply chain, Mexico first needs to
innovation,” said Velázquez. Likewise,
strengthen its transportation infrastructure,
“investing in talent and training of the skilled
said Antonio Velázquez, Managing Director,
workforce is what Mexico should be doing
Queretaro Aerospace Cluster. Beyond
if it wants to keep its position in the index
infrastructure and multimodal transportation,
of global players in the aerospace industry,”
the country also needs a reliable supply of
said Claire Barnouin, Executive Director,
energy and water, adds Velázquez.
Monterrey Aerocluster. Human capital and talent nurturing will intrinsically shape the
“Technology is a powerful enabler for economic development. When a country has its own capabilities to develop its own technology it has the possibility to remain competitive internationally”
future of innovation and competitiveness. “If Mexico wants to be taken seriously in the global arena, we need a strong commitment at the national level to train our workforce. Without talent there is no industr y,” said Barnouin.
Antonio Velázquez
M exico h as uniq u e o p p o r tunities fo r
Managing Director | Queretaro Aerospace Cluster
grow th and is increasingly becoming more attractive both in manufacturing and supplying the afterparts and repairs
O t h e r c h a l l e n g e s to t a c k l e i n c l u d e
services the aerospace industry demands.
cybersecurity breaches and bottlenecks and
“Services is an area where Mexico could
delays in ports, said Luis Carlos Ramírez,
grow competitively,” said Tomás Sibaja,
President, Chihuahua Aerospace Cluster.
President, Baja California Aerospace Cluster.
Likewise, Mexico has yet to improve its capital flow within the supply chain. If the circle of
One of Mexico’s pending accounts is the
capital becomes more agile through the right
local development of national technology.
support and incentives, the entire sector will
“Technology is a powerful enabler for
benefit, said Ramírez.
economic development. When a country has its own capabilities to develop its
Citing insights from the World Economic
own technology it has the possibility to
Forum (WEF), Ramírez highlights that
remain competitive internationally,” said
“supply chains are much more than systems,
Velázquez. Technological innovation also
structures and technology, they are also
creates a waterfall effect throughout entire
people, whose safety and wellbeing must
value chains. When a company implements
be upheld.” The COVID-19 pandemic is a
new technology, businesses throughout
reminder of the importance of human capital
the entire supply chain benefit, improving
throughout industrial activity. Therefore, to
efficiency and competitiveness.
improve competitiveness, the human factor must be prioritized. “We need to go back to
However, Mexico is not known for being a
basics and teach innovation culture from the
technology producer country; it is known as
early stages in education to give our future
a technology consumer country. Mexico’s
professional workforce the needed skills for
co n ditio n a s a te ch n olo gy co nsu m e r
the technological advancement the industry
country is unlikely to change in the short
16
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights
term. To boost the aerospace supply chain
of what companies need to improve to favor
in Mexico, investment and collaboration
national competitiveness,” said Arredondo.
to produce inhouse innovation is key. The country also needs to implement strategies
Mexico has a privileged geographical
that allow for the fast incorporation of
location that allows it to position itself as a
innovation into industrial processes and
node for global commerce and supply chain
procedures. “The tricky part is how to
distribution. It also has competitive and
get traditional manufacture companies,
capable talent that can perform high-quality
most from which are family-owned SMEs
work and boost economic growth. However,
to understand the added value they could
to boost competitiveness of its national
get from digitizing their operation, as
suppliers, public policies and a coordinated
opposed to following traditional methods,”
government strategy are essential. “Mexico
said Barnouin.
has not asked for anything in exchange from the foreign companies that arrive in
To achieve the leap forward, Mexico needs
the country. Landing is very easy. We need
local technological production generated
to start asking those companies for local
through the joint efforts of the government,
industry development in return to catch up,”
companies, academic institutions and R&D
said Arredondo.
centers. In this scenario, the government needs to lead innovation effor t s and
“We need a national policy and strategy
support companies that are committed
to grow the local aerospace industry and
to local R&D, said Alejandro Arredondo,
provide the commercial and business
M a n a g i n g D i re c to r, B a j í o Ae ro s p a ce
environment to capitalize on our talent and
Cluster. Meanwhile, academic institutions
increase our competitiveness,” said Barnouin.
need to adapt quickly to form the required
With a national guideline and united efforts
human talent for new technologies. “In
between sectors and stakeholders, Mexico
Mexico, better collaboration between
will achieve its full potential and consolidate
the government and the private sector is
itself as an international reference in the
required to achieve a better understanding
aerospace industry.
QUERETARO TO GAIN MORE PROMINENT ROLE IN AEROSPACE SECTOR Queretaro’s aerospace industry keeps
the state has the potential to take a more
growing despite challenges, with the state
prominent role in the aerospace industry.
playing a crucial role in the national and international supply chains. Thanks to its
Between 1999 and 2021, Queretaro received
labor force, universities and ideal location,
the most foreign direct investment (FDI) for
17
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights the aerospace industry in Mexico, for a total
Eurocopter, Aernnova, Tremec, ITP, Grupo
of US$981 million. Queretaro’s numerous
Safran and TechOps. The university is
aerospace companies manufacture
leading numerous aerospace projects,
aerostructures, complex components of
including some for the development of
aerostructures, landing gear, engines and
un m a n n e d a e rial ve hicles (UAV ) a n d
composite materials. Furthermore, the
composite materials, the latter alongside
state has capabilities for special treatments
SEDENA . Other projects include flight
and processes.
simulators for pilot training, developed with the Mexican Air Force and a femtosatellite
“We have equipped technical and technological universities in the state, including Universidad Politécnica de Querétaro (UPQ), Universidad Tecnológica de Querétaro (UTEQ) and Universidad Tecnológica de San Juan del Río (UTSJR)”
built with MxSpace through Thumbsat. The university also performed research on nano, micro and picosatellites, launchers and navigation systems with the Mexican Space Agency (AEM). UNAQ recently reached an agreement with Bombardier Aerospace for a fast-track
Marco Antonio del Prete
training program for the manufacture of
Minister of Sustainable Development | SEDESU Queretaro
harnesses for their aircraft. UNAQ is the only university in Mexico that focuses completely on aerospace studies.
Queretaro’s geographic location, near the ports of Manzanillo and Lazaro Cardenas,
These strengths have helped make the
has been essential to its success in the
state competitive. “We receive a superior
aerospace sector, said Marco Antonio
investment amount compared to the major
del Prete Tercero, Minister of Sustainable
municipalities in Mexico. We have the
Development of Queretaro (SEDESU). The
top grade on the national scale of stable
state is also centric and well connected to
perspectives. We were awarded fifth place
other strategic industrial states such as San
in the “Global Cities of the Future with
Luis Potosi, Irapuato, Leon, Guadalajara
Overall Economic Potential 2021-2022”
and Puebla. However, Queretaro’s main
and we are the second most attractive
asset is its talent, which is the result of
state for investment in Mexico,” explained
the industry’s strong collaboration with
del Prete. Additionally, Queretaro has
academia and R&D centers.
no public debt and has the healthiest finances, he added. It is also the third most
Q u e ret a ro’s m a in s tre n gth lie s in it s
competitive in Mexico.
education system, which has received s u p p o r t f ro m b oth th e i n d u s tr y a n d
In the aerospace industry, Queretaro is
the local government, said del Prete.
home to two OEMs, 26 Tier 1 and Tier 2
“ We h ave e q u i p p e d te c h n i c a l a n d
suppliers, five MROs, 19 general services
technological universities in the state,
companies, 12 research centers, four raw
in clu ding U nive r sida d Polité cnic a d e
material suppliers and seven academic
Querétaro (UPQ), Universidad Tecnológica
institutions, being in eight place among
de Querétaro (UTEQ) and Universidad
cities with the best FDI performance for
Tecnológica de San Juan del Río (UTSJR).”
the aerospace sector.
T h e s t a t e a l s o h o s t s M e x i c o ’s o n l y
“Q ueretaro has experienced a 20 0
a e ro n a u ti c a l u n i ve r s i t y : U n i ve r s i n a d
percent growth in aerospace companies
Aeronáutica en Querétaro (UNAQ). UNAQ’s
since 2006 . Most companies focus on
graduates usually work for multinational
manufacturing (72 percent), followed by
a e ros p a ce co m p a n i e s e s t a b li s h e d i n
R&D (13 percent) and maintenance and
the state, which include B ombardier,
repair (11 percent),” said del Prete.
18
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights QUERETARO: AN AEROSPACE POWERHOUSE Queretaro’s aerospace industry has been
R&D could be strengthened as a result of
growing steadily during the past ten years,
more investment in talent and infrastructure,
gaining relevance in Mexico and abroad.
supported by the triple helix and other
The state has become a key destination for
players. “[Queretaro] has excelled thanks to
foreign direct investment (FDI) thanks to the
the joint work from academia, the private
conditions the state offered to entrepreneurs
sector and government, but other actors
in the aerospace sector, agree experts.
could play a role,” said Jorge Gutiérrez de Velasco, Airport Manager, AIQ. The state’s
“The latter means that the state needs to develop more infrastructure, more capacity to broaden the panorama of investment and offer more competitive, trained professionals for the companies that need it”
industries and economy could benefit from incorporating these other players into the triple helix. “Society and sustainability need to join the helix if we are working toward the netzero emissions goal for 2050,” said Marco del Prete Tercero, Queretaro’s Minister
Enrique Sosa
of Sustainable Development. The state’s
Dean | UNAQ
government is building bridges to facilitate the work of the helix, said del Petre: “We have implemented a close relationship
Among its strengths, Queretaro has highly
with groups from the organized society
qualified personnel at various technical
and we wish to integrate them to continue
a n d professional levels tha n k s to it s
growing in line with environmental and
numerous universities and training centers,
development goals.”
which include Mexico’s only aeronautical university, Universidad Aeronáutica en
Industrial parks and Queretaro´s strategic
Querétaro (UNAQ). “Talent is one of the
location are fundamental for the state’s
state’s long-term strengths,” said Enrique
success in the aerospace sector. “These
Sosa, Dean, UNAQ. “Thus, we need to focus
characteristics have allowed for the arrival
on developing more human capital and build
of key players like Bombardier, GE or Safran,
new skills to attract more processes in line
which improved the capacity of our local
with the needs of the sector.” Nonetheless,
supply chain,” said Juan Carlos Corral,
Queretaro still has a gap to close regarding
President, Queretaro Aerospace Cluster.
gender equality. Few women are entering this field, so “we need to break gender roles
T h e s t a t e , h o w e ve r, h a s a p e n d i n g
to encourage their participation,” said Sosa.
task in increasing the inclusion of local manufacturing companies into the supply
The state also provides continued political
chains of these international players. Supply
stability that led to the development
chains could be strengthened if international
of a six-year strategy to suppor t the
players manufacturing in the state would
aerospace industry and others. The sector
purchase 10 percent of their materials
is now focusing on developing numerous
locally, which would also increase “the need
te c h n o l o g i e s , i n c l u d i n g h i g h p owe r
for more power and energy, which could
electronics, propulsion systems, satellites
be sourced through startups and financial
and the space industry. “The latter means
agencies,” said Corral.
that the state needs to develop more infrastructure, more capacity to broaden
Q u e ret a ro ’s a e ro s p a ce i n d u s tr y i s
the panorama of investment and offer more
increasingly expanding its capabilities. For
competitive, trained professionals for the
example, it is strengthening its activities in
companies that need it,” said Sosa.
defense and space manufacture and moving
19
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights toward maintenance-oriented models, which
and technology transfer. Automotive
have to be offered in the state’s educational
company Vuhl, for example, used aerospace
centers to train more people in this field,
technology to develop one high-tech vehicle
said del Prete. “The government also wants
“and this is just one example of how much
the state to enter the space industry. With
we could support other industries such as
the democratization of space, this is an
pharmaceuticals, information technologies,
opportunity that goes beyond satellites.
and so on,” said Carlos Robles, President &
We want a Latin American and Caribbean
Head of Aerospace, AMBE Engineering LLC.
Space Agency (ALCE) office in Queretaro,” said del Prete. To do so, the government has
“Countries that work in the aerospace
been working with the Ministry of Foreign
industry train specialized workers, generate
Affairs (SRE) to create an office of ALCE in
more tech and technology transfer and
the state.
develop an advanced ecosystem, among other benefits. We do not work for the
Thanks to the aerospace industry, Queretaro
industry, we have this industry as part of
has seen job creation, economic growth
our development strategy,” said Corral.
FAMEX 2023 WILL WELCOME FRANCE AS THE GUEST OF HONOR Considering the challenging environment
FA M E X i s a n i m p o r t a n t a c to r i n th e
M exico’s aerospace sec tor faces , the
development of the local aerospace sector
Mexican Aerospace Fair (FAMEX)aims to
and is a member of the Mexican Federation
support Mexico’s economic development
of the Aerospace Industry (FEMIA), the
through the aerospace sector, attract
Mexican Council of Aerospace Education
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), generate
(CO M E A), th e C o n s u lti n g C o u n c i l of
jobs and train future employees. This world-
the Aerospace Industry of the Ministry
class aeronautical, security and defense
of Economy (CCIA) and the College of
event is organized by SEDENA through
Mexican Aerospace Engineers (CIMA).
the Mexican Air Force and supported by the three levels of government, as well as
T h e e ve n t ’s m a i n o b j e c t i ve s a r e t o
public, private, academic and business
preser ve and guarantee national and
organizations.
internal security and to strengthen the Mexican Army and Air Force, according to the National Defense Sectorial
“FAMEX is supporting the continued
Program 2020 -2024. FAMEX also aims
advance of Mexico’s aerospace and
to position itself as the main promoter of
adjacent industries by connecting
the aerospace industry in Latin America,
companies, talent and providing a
supporting economic development, FDI
space for them to showcase their
attraction and academic and defense
projects and services”
investment. Moreover, FAMEX seeks to
General Javier Sandoval Dueñas
President | FAMEX 2023
reinforce military-civilian relationships through communication, transparency and respect and increase civilian thrust in Mexico’s Armed Forces.
“ FA M E X is sup p o r ting th e co ntin u e d
FAMEX was created in 2014. At the time,
a d v a n c e o f M ex i c o ’s a e r o s p a c e a n d
the Consultative Council of the Aerospace
adjacent industries by connec ting
Industry did not exist, FEMIA had just over
companies, talent and providing a space
40 members and COMEA did not have the
for them to showcase their projects and
proper promotion. Consequently, SEDENA
services,” said General Javier Sandoval
ought to organize FAMEX on its own. In the
Dueñas, President, FAMEX
2015 edition, FAMEX had less companies
20
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights participating than the fairs of Chile and
and education sectors. The participation of
Brazil. In 2017, FAMEX surpassed Brazil in
academia has been essential for the Mexican
expositors and in 2019 it surpassed Chile
industry, generating excellent up-to-date
and was recognized as the most important
academic programs that serve the changing
aerospace fair in Latin America.
needs of the industry. FAMEX also aims to be a platform where young researchers can
In 2018, the event improved thanks to the
promote their projects.
interest of the current administration in promoting the sector. Owing to this, FAMEX
“For 2023, FAMEX aims to innovate in
2021 attracted 317 companies, 129,800
several areas of opportunity. Regarding
attendants and 47 countries, with France as
academia, for example, we want to strengthen
the guest of honor. The event also hosted
the participation of public and private
4, 200 B2B meetings and 62 exhibition
national and international universities,” said
aircraft. On the other hand, Brazil and
General Sandoval.
Chile canceled their aerospace fairs that year. “Maintaining and advancing FAMEX’s
During FAMEX 2023, the space sector will
objectives despite the detrimental disruption
take a more prominent role compared with
of the COVID-19 pandemic speaks to the
prior editions. Space agencies from Mexico,
potential and expected growth of Mexico’s
France and the US are interested in meeting
aerospace sector,” said General Sandoval.
to exchange experiences and update collaboration agreements at governmental
For the 2023 edition, FAMEX will offer
levels. Moreover, France recognizes the
cultural events, networking cocktails,
quality of Mexican talent and dares to design
a e ros p a ce s h ows a n d i n a u g u ra l a n d
and manufacture key original equipment
closure ceremonies. It will also include a
parts in the Latin American country. France is
digital platform for enterprises to have B2B
Mexico’s main aerospace investor and has an
networking opportunities. Seminaries and
important impact in the country’s economy
forums will be offered. The upcoming FAMEX
and job creation. The guest of honor modality
event will be held in the new Santa Lucia’s
started in the 2019 edition with Canada, while
facilities with six exposition pavilions for the
in 2021, the US was the guest of honor, as
aeronautics, aerospace, defense, 4.0 Industry
reported by MBN.
AIFA OFFERS MUCH MORE THAN EXPECTED The airport system in the Valley of Mexico
“AIFA seeks to make operations safer for
has operated above capacity for almost
passengers and avoid airline expenses due
30 years. The Felipe Ángeles International
to delays generated by airport saturation
Airport (AIFA) was built to counteract
i n M e x i c o C i t y, ” s a i d C o l o n e l A l a i n
th i s s a t u r a ti o n a n d co m p l e m e n t th e
Reynaldo Solana Arévalo, Deputy General
metropolitan airport system, composed of
Operational Director, AIFA.
Mexico City International Airport (AICM) and Toluca International Airport.
The airport was one of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador campaign promises
AICM has been saturated since 1994, as
and began construction on Oct. 17, 2019,
estimated by the Ministry of Infrastructure,
in the Santa Lucía military base, State of
C o m m u n i c ati o n s a n d Tr a n s p o r t ati o n
Mexico, under the responsibility of the
(SICT) in accordance with the National
Mexican Army Corps of Engineers. Its first
Airport Law. Considering that AICM is the
construction phase was completed in 2.5
most important airport terminal in the
years and inaugurated on March 21, 2022.
country, this saturation poses a pressing problem for all airlines and passengers
AIFA has a 273,339 m2 terminal building,
that use it. Under these circumstances,
with an operating capacity of 19.5 million
21
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights
passengers per year. Its aeronautical
with a capacity of 21 million liters of turbo
infrastructure consists of two 4.5 km parallel
fuel. The airport’s infrastructure allows
runways of hydraulic concrete, suitable for
direct fueling through a subway pipeline,
landing any type of aircraft. In addition,
shortening refueling time and increasing
AIFA has a cargo and customs terminal for
operational safety. To increase security and
merchandise transportation, with a capacity
competitiveness, AIFA’s facilities have also
of up to 3 million tons per year.
been equipped with the latest technology available, decreasing user waiting times and
Since its inauguration, AIFA has carried out
improving comfort.
449 operations: 224 departures and 225 arrivals, mobilizing 46,052 passengers. At
Passenger processing is done either at the
the moment, only four airlines operate at
counter or through a virtual check-in using
AIFA: Aeroméxico, Volaris, Viva Aerobus
a mobile app. Then baggage documentation
and the Venezuelan airline Conviasa. “We
is done through a drop-off, shortening the
had a slow start; we are working to boost
passenger’s journey to the final departure
the airport and grow gradually,” said Colonel
lounge by about 15 minutes. AIFA also
Solana. AIFA also offers general aviation
maintains the safety measures to prevent
operations, hosting a total of 40 operations
COVID-19 infections through its touchless
carrying 74 passengers.
a n d p a p e rle s s p a s se n g e r p ro cessing system, which is also adapted for the
“AIFA is a sui generis airport… It has a great
use of electronic passports. “According
infrastructure for general aviation and for
to IATA, the technology implemented at
domestic and international cargo. However,
AIFA for passenger processing makes the
what distinguishes this airport is that it also
airport 74 percent faster, 61 percent more
has spaces for entertainment and business,”
intuitive, 50 percent more secure and [the
said Colonel Solana. AIFA’s surroundings are
experience] 72 percent more satisfactory,”
equipped with hotels, shopping malls and
said Colonel Solana.
spaces for cultural activities that seek to take advantage of the airport’s infrastructure to
A I FA a lso off e r s airlin es co m p etitive
generate a larger economic spillover and
costs in comparison to other airports in
incentivize businesses.
the area, said Colonel Solana. According to the Ministry of Finance (SHCP), AIFA’s
AIFA also has its own fuel farm, a series
fares are 13 percent lower on average than
of storage tanks buried underground,
those of AICM, some are up to 25 percent
22
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights less expensive. This represents a great
Mundo E Mall, the National Auditorium, the
incentive for airlines to operate in AIFA.
World Trade Center building, intermodal stations Indios Verdes and Ciudad Azteca
One of the largest criticisms AIFA received
and the AICM. Also, the State of Mexico
at the time of its inauguration was the
offers an articulated transportation system
lack of road connectivity that made it
to AIFA for MX$18 (US$0.88).
harder for passengers to travel to the airport. However, land connective has
“ We a r e s t r o n g l y c o m m i t te d to t h e
been expanded to facilitate access to the
satisfaction of our passengers and airlines
new airport, said Colonel Solana. These
that work with us; we are constantly
infrastructure works include improvements
seeking to improve,” said Colonel Solana.
to th e M exico - Pa ch u c a H ig hway a n d
AIFA has barely been operating for one
the State of Mexico Exterior Beltway.
month and its operators are continuously
Moreover, several private companies now
wo r k i n g to co n s o li d ate th e a i r p o r t ’s
offer transportation to AIFA from different
position. “We are analyzing our areas of
key points in Mexico City at a maximum
opportunity to keep improving and make
cost of MX$150 (US$7. 30). Depar ture
AIFA an airport of quality, warmth and
points include Perisur Mall, Santa Fe Mall,
efficiency that will drive Mexico’s growth.
AIRLINE, AIRPORT SYNERGIES LEAD TO GROWTH For the past two years, Mexico’s aerospace
business traffic and, while the first segment
and aviation sectors have focused on
is back up, the second has taken the longest
recovering activity flows and economic
to recover,” said Ricardo Dueñas, Director
stability after the COVID-19 pandemic.
General, Grupo OMA.
Now, the industry has shifted its goals and is also striving to advance its sustainability
“Trips to visit family and friends and tourism
plans and improve passenger experience
travel have been the fastest areas to recover.
to continue to be one of the main means
We saw the first indicators in 2020 but
of transportation for both passenger and
industrial business flights did not take
cargo. Airlines and airports are two of the
off until 2022. Just recently, Grupo OMA
main points on which the development of
experienced a 90 percent growth in this
the Mexican aerospace industry hinges.
type of flights, but this occurred two years after the COVID-19 outbreak,” said Dueñas.
Sustained efforts on traffic recovery have shown new industr y trends regarding
Passenger behaviors also changed hygiene
passenger behavior. “We used to have
measures and airport practices regarding
23 million passengers on domestic and
in-person contact between clients and staff,
23
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights which led to the adoption of measures to
to improve the area’s operation capabilities
best fit the passengers’ needs, Dueñas
by 50 percent. “For airports such as the
explained. These measures also respond
Queretaro Intercontinental Airport (AIQ),
to the sector’s long-time goal to increase
this measure aims to increase their capacity
air travel in Mexico, an objective that has
from 32 flights per hour to 48 per hour,”
been greatly advanced by the country’s
said Jorge Gutiérrez de Velasco, Director
ultra -low- cost airlines . These airlines
General, AIQ.
have greatly boosted local tourism to the point that they are now being recognized
Improving traffic at the metropolitan area
internationally for their achievements in the
will also require investing in novel industry
sector. “As Mexico’s middle class grows and
trends such as ambulatory flights, special
the population pyramid has more people
airport wings for low-cost airlines and the
old enough to travel, these passenger flows
adoption of tech to have less interaction
are expected to grow. And so will airport
between passengers and to provide a more
capacity,” said Dueñas.
direct travel experience. Infrastructure wise, investment in runways, platforms and pavements for the new generation of
“The COVID-19 pandemic drastically
aircraft are among the top priorities.
shifted freight traffic. E-commerce became a main source of product
Air cargo is another significant attractor
acquisition and this changed supply
of investment and cooperation between
chain”
airlin es a n d airp or t s . “ Th e COVI D -1 9
Jorge Gutiérrez de Velasco Director General | AIQ
pandemic drastically shifted freight traffic. E-commerce became a main source of product acquisition and this changed supply chains,” said Gutiérrez. AIQ saw its best year
The increase in traffic is increasing pressure
for cargo in 2021 and this year, the airport
in the already oversaturated Mexico City
has been growing for five months in a row.
International Airport (AICM). This airport’s oversaturation was one of the main reasons
But growth and reconfiguration also implies
behind the construction of Mexico City’s new
securing fuel sources. The fuel provider of
airport: Felipe Ángeles International Airport
choice in Mexico is the Network of Airports
(AIFA). While new, the airport “is trying to
and Auxiliary Services (ASA Network),
work jointly with airlines through incentives
which is currently prioritizing five of the
that keep fares low and increase airport
large airports of its network. These include
accessibility,” said Coronel Alain Solana,
Puebla, where cargo in 2022 experienced
Operations Deputy General Manager, AIFA.
a 280 percent growth compared to the
To avoid traffic disruptions, AIFA aims to
same period last year. Puerto Escondido,
offer the right domestic connections that
Tepic, Colima and Ciudad del Carmen
reduce travel time and provide greater
a re also working to im prove aircraf t
security to operators.
processing capacity.
To a c h i eve t h e r i g h t o p e r a t i o n a n d
ASA is working with Grupo OMA, AIFA and
management, investment is fundamental.
AIQ to review their fuel systems. “With
“Grupo OMA, for example, is investing to
OMA, we are looking to extend the hydrant
decentralize traffic and make the airport in
network for a better volume capacity in
Monterrey a hub to avoid forced layovers
the airport in Monterrey. AIQ has grown
in the center of the country,” Dueñas said.
significantly so we have to improve its fuel storage capacity,” said Mauricio Arellano
The National Metrology Center (CENAM)
Villavicencio, Director of the Fuels Division,
has been implementing a metropolitan
ASA . The growth of these airports has
airspace modernization project that aims
driven ASA to acquire fuel supply vehicles
24
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights to align to airport requirements and the
Both airports and airlines have to align
operational reality of the country.
their needs and processes to respond corre c tly to cha nges in th e ind ustr y.
A common concern for all airports in the
“The big task we have as an industry is to
country is sustainability but newer airports
democratize flights. Mexico has one the
such as AIFA have an advantage as they
most sophisticated fleet of luxury buses
were built with clean energy in mind. “We
in the world , which has inhibited the
have solar farms and cogeneration plants
penetration of our services,” said Carlos
that reduce emissions,” said Coronel Solana.
C ampillo, Par tner, Alegre, C alderón &
AIQ is also investing in sustainability and aims
Márquez Abogados SC. However, “if the
to reduce its carbon footprint through solar
aviation industry continues to excel in
energy farms and wind energy. “The long-
p a s se n g e r exp e rie n ce a n d o p e ratio n
term vision of AIQ is to always coexist with
management, we could continue
the environment,” said Gutiérrez.
strengthening the aviation industry.”
OPPORTUNITIES IN AN ERA OF CARGO DISRUPTIONS T h e R u s si a - U k r a i n e co n fl i c t a n d th e
by 80 percent,” said Luis Ramos, CEO,
COVID-19 pandemic continue impacting
Aerocharter.
global air cargo, which is also tackling rising fuel prices, economic sanctions and
The cargo sector is still affected by the
no-flight zones. These trends affected
global context but the COVID-19 outbreak
numerous markets by increasing service
a ll owe d th e s e c to r to b e co m e m o re
costs and delaying deliveries at a time
relevant to the economy. To face the
when e-commerce skyrocketed, increasing
sanitary crisis, air freight became crucial
the need for faster deliveries . U nder
as it allowed countries to receive and send
these circumstances, companies have
medical supplies, forced many companies
been forced to adapt to give continuity
to get certified for the transportation of
to their operations and keep up with the
pharmaceutical products and turn their
growing demand.
passenger fleet into cargo aircraft. During the pandemic, “cargo transportation was
“We had never had a shipping crisis like
globally considered an essential activity
this one. Fuel prices are increasing as a
for the continuity of economic activities and
global pandemic shrank air freight capacity
most importantly for the lives of people,”
25
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights said Jorge L. Torres, Vice President, FedEx
given priority depending on their relevance
Express Mexico.
or urgency.
Airlines were not prepared for this crisis.
For air cargo to succeed in overcoming
“Supply chain disruption forced companies
these challenges, the public sector must
to reconfigure their cargo fleets, as travel
participate in the process and embrace
demand lagged,” said Luis Sierra, CEO,
digitization and automation. In Mexico,
MAS Air. Before the pandemic, MAS Air
cargo transportation can be delayed by the
was implementing a five-year strategic plan
overreliance on physical requirements and
but as COVID-19 hit, its operations were
permits, which could be digitized to the
destabilized and focused on maintaining
convenience of regulators and companies.
their operations. Fortunately, the brand
Moreover, the excessive use of paper hinders
is overcoming the obstacles posed by the
the industry’s sustainability efforts. For that
pandemic and is currently celebrating its
reason, the sector could benefit from the
30th anniversary, said Sierra.
implementation of the cargo processes used in the US and the EU. “Processes and other standards of operations need to be revised,
“Cargo transportation was globally
as many lead to time and monetary losses,”
considered an essential activity for
said Frank Nozinsky, Director, Sales and
the continuity of economic
Handling Mexico, Lufthansa Cargo.
activities and most importantly for the lives of people”
Jorge L. Torres
Vice President | FedEx Express Mexico
The e-commerce boom is putting further pressure in the cargo industry. “E-commerce is booming, accelerated by the pandemic. This has made customers even more anxious to get their products in days, if not hours,
Although COVI D -1 9 heavily impac ted
so we are anticipating that the sector will
air cargo companies, opportunities also
become even faster,” said Nozinsky to MBN.
arose due to the lack of containers for maritime transportation. “The shortage
In Mexico, e-commerce grew by 81 percent
of shipping containers is an opportunity
during 2021 and plays an important role
for airlines to demonstrate the potential
in exports, which are a large part of the
of air freight, which is being increasingly
country’s GDP. As sales increase, the sector
recognized ,” said G uillaume M arsoin ,
needs streamlined processes and regulations
Director Mexico and Central America,
that facilitate the transportation of goods
Air France-KLM Martinair Cargo. This is
across borders. “Regulations must adapt and
linked to the fact that during the COVID-19
so that customer experience improves and
recovery phase there has been an increase
transparency is promoted,” added Ramos.
in rates, a change in the flow of goods, fewer operational vessels and congested
The air cargo sector is undergoing a
ports. Even though this situation benefits
transformation. “I am confident about
the industry because clients are looking
the future of airfreight, we have the right
for more transportation options, air freight
opportunity to be more sustainable, optimize
companies have to deal with the challenge
productivity, change and start thinking about
of prioritizing what products should be
the future,” said Marsoin.
MROS: KEY FOR SAFE, RELIABLE AEROSPACE MOBILITY MRO services are a crucial support for
the MRO services Mexico’s fleet requires,
flight operations, as both scheduled and
the country has a total of 305 aeronautical
unscheduled maintenance represent the
workshops that provide suppor t and
highest impact cost in aviation. To supply
maintenance services to both fixed wing
26
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights and rotary wing aircraft. The MRO services
their services’ supply with the productivity
helicopters require are highly different from
and profitability of the flight operations
those of airplanes and present significant
of different aircraft. To extend the value of
oppor tunities within the aerospace
aircraft assets, pertinent maintenance is a
value chain.
key element. “Maintenance is geared towards maintaining the value of the helicopter not
“A power unit with flight capabilities must
only for its operation, but also to preserve its
always operate under the safest conditions
value as an asset,” Vega noted.
marked by the manufacturer’s guidelines,” said Jorge Vega, Commercial Manager,
HeliOffshore data reports that, between
ASESA MRO.
January 2013 and December 2019, a total of 65 aircraft accidents were recorded.
Out of the 305 MRO workshops in Mexico,
Preventing these accidents is only possible
202 focus on airplanes and the remaining
through the regular and reliable maintenance
103 specialize on helicopters, although most
of aircraft. “MROs are committed that,
workshops service the commercial aviation
through safe operations, compliance with
sector. Mexico has a 7,040-aircraft fleet,
procedures, incorporation of management
considering commercial aircraft, business
tools for planning, execution and supply chain,
and government aircraft. Of that fleet, 703
we generate the right conditions to provide
aircraft are helicopters of eight brands:
the highest quality maintenance possible,”
Agusta, Airbus, Bell Textron, Enstrom, MD,
said Vega.
Robinson, Schweizer and Sikorsky. About 62 percent of the fleet is composed of Bell
ASESA MRO has consolidated its leadership
Textron helicopters, followed by Airbus with
by providing maintenance services that
18 percent and Agusta with 10 percent.
promote safety and reliability for the industry. In 2021, ASESA MRO covered
Generally, the maintenance provided falls
4,963 maintenance service orders. ASESA
into three distinct categories. The first is
MRO is strategically distributed throughout
preventive maintenance, which is performed
the country thanks to its three workshops
following a set amount of flight hours, aircraft
located in Mexico City, Monterrey and Ciudad
cycles or warm-ups. The second is corrective
del Carmen. The latter is the company’s
maintenance, which is given to fix a failure
main base, where it assists the largest
reported during the pre-flight, flight or post-
concentration of helicopters for oil and gas
flight stages. Finally, there is the major repair
operations. With 16,000m2 of hangars in
of components, which occurs when more in-
its three workshops, ASESA MRO has the
depth maintenance of the aircraft is required
capacity to service 30 helicopters on the
after a predetermined number of flight-cycles.
shop floor simultaneously. In addition, the company has a Mobile Repair Team (MRT),
All aircraft in general must operate safely
which is a high-performance work unit that
and efficiently. However, safety and reliability
can go on site to attend failures outside
must be also balanced with maintenance
the helicopter base. These capabilities set
costs to remain competitive and economically
ASESA MRO aside from competitors when
viable. For this reason, MROs must align
assisting helicopters’ maintenance.
AIRBUS TAKES THE NEXT STEP IN SUSTAINABILITY Hydrogen-powered flights are a long-time
become the world’s first zero-emission
goal of the aerospace industry that could
commercial aircraft by 2035.
become a reality thanks to Airbus’s three ZEROe. The ZEROe concept aircraft are
Hydrogen’s energy-per-unit mass is three
powered by hydrogen combustion through
times higher than that of traditional jet
modified gas turbine engines and aim to
fuel. If generated from renewable energy
27
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights through electrolysis, hydrogen emits no CO2
A i r b u s ’s g o a l is to o p e rate with 1 0 0
emissions, generating renewable energy to
percent sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)
potentially power large aircraft over long
before 2030 and to be the first major
distances without undesirable emissions.
manufacturer to offer a climate neutral
All three ZEROe concepts are hybrid-
aims to reach zero-emission aviation by
hydrogen aircraft powered by hydrogen
2050. The ZEROe is the materialization of
combustion . In addition , hydrogen
these efforts.
commercial aircraft by 2035. The OEM
fuel cells create electrical power that complements the gas turbine, resulting in a
The first of these three aircraft is a turbofan
highly efficient hybrid-electric propulsion
designed for 120-200 passengers with a
system . All of these technologies
range of over 2,000 nautical miles, capable
a re co m p l e m e nt a r y a n d th e b e n e fit s
of o p e rating tra ns- co ntin e nta lly a n d
are additive.
powered by a modified gas-turbine engine running on hydrogen, rather than jet fuel. In
I n 202 2 , Airb us la un ch e d th e ZERO e
this case, the liquid hydrogen will be stored
demonstrator to test hydrogen
and distributed via tanks located behind the
co m b u s ti o n te c h n o l o g y o n a n A 3 8 0
rear pressure bulkhead.
multimodal platform. Through ground and flight testing, Airbus “expects to achieve
The second eZERO aircraft is a turboprop
a mature technology readiness level for a
for up to 100 passengers, which uses a
hydrogen-combustion propulsion system
turboprop engine instead of a turbofan. This
by 2025,” said Damien Sternchuss, Vice
aircraft is powered by hydrogen combustion
President and Head of Airline Marketing for
in modified gas-turbine engines. The aircraft
Latin America and the Caribbean, Airbus.
would be capable of traveling over 1,000 nautical miles, making it a perfect option
Airbus aims to become a pioneer for
for short-haul trips.
sustainable aviation. While aviation only generates 2.5 percent of the global CO2
The last one is a “blended-wing body”
emissions, the OEM is committed to reduce
design for up to 200 passengers. In this
these emissions, said Sternchuss. Some
model the wings merge with the main
of Airbus’s first attempts included jet-age
body of the aircraft. The exceptionally
aircraft that reduced CO2 emissions by
wide fuselage opens up multiple options
80 percent. “These also reduced noise by
for hydrogen storage and distribution and
75 percent, which is very important when
for cabin layout. This model would have a
operating in urban areas,” said Sternchuss.
similar range than the turbofan.
28
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights To seamlessly operate these aircraf t,
journey was possible through the support
collaboration with airports is fundamental,
of different companies that share their
said Sternchuss. Airports transport heavy
same sustainability values, such as the
goods including machinery, buses, trucks
Aviation Center in Germany, Canada and the
and aircraft, but they could also become
University of Manchester, he added.
hydrogen hubs in preparation for zero emission aviation.
A i r b u s a l s o i n t r o d u c e d t h e F e l l o ’ fl y concept, which performs wake energy
As part of its sustainability efforts, Airbus
retrieval similar to migrating birds flying in
had previously introduced its 100 percent
the “V” patterns. “Airbus is fully engaged
SAF aircraft family. “These operated with
in driving the sector to carbon neutral
25 percent less fuel and generated less CO2
aviation , leading the change through
versus previous aircraft generations,” said
th e aviatio n in d us tr y ro a d m a p,” s aid
Sternchuss. This sustainable aviation fuel
Sternchuss.
HALCÓN 2: THE FIRST MADE-IN-MEXICO-AIRPLANE IN 70 YEARS After 70 years of not having an aircraft
challenging to find trusted suppliers because
designed and produced in Mexico,
they did not have our knowhow nor met our
Horizontec came to shift the country’s
expectations. This forced Horizontec to build
aeronautical histor y in 2014 . The
these capabilities,” said Humberto Montaño
company has launched the Halcón 1 and
Valdez, Operations Manager and Design
is developing the Halcón 2, which will
Area, Horizontec.
become its first commercial produc t. Innovative technologies and composite
The implementation of composite materials
materials are some of the characteristics
has not been easy. Although the use of carbon
that make these aircraft unique. They also
fiber makes aircraft lighter, few companies
showcase the engineering capabilities
use it so the calculations to use it had to be
of Mexican talent, while offering a light
developed by Horizontec’s engineers. This
sports-quality aircraft.
process require the development of a new software. “Horizontec has developed an engineering platform with the capacity to
“Halcón’s project model is an ideal
design and test structural and aerodynamic
asset for the more than 150 aviation
models for the accelerated construction of
schools working to train tomorrow’s
new prototypes,” said Giovanni Angelucci,
talent, given its safety measures for
CEO, Horizontec.
both the pilots and the prototype”
Giovanni Angelucci CEO | Horizontec
Moreover, supplies were hard to find. At the beginning, the company struggled with finding suppliers of quality materials, leading the company to develop alternatives and bet
“The Halcón 2 aims to address the needs of
on the diversification of its supplier base and
Mexican aviation by offering competitive
look for alternatives of common materials.
advantages such as efficiency, low flight-
Horizontec also faced a gap between design
hour costs, ergonomics and safety during
and manufacturing that had to be reduced
flight. Besides, it is composed of quality
through efficient communication. It also
materials and well-designed,” said Diego
struggled to find qualified professionals.
Sinhue, Governor of Guanajuato, during the inauguration of Horizontec’s new plant.
D e s p i te t h e c h a l l e n g e s , H o r i zo n te c succeeded in developing and certifying
Being a pioneer in the sector brough
the Halcón 1 and is in line to certify the
Horizontec several challenges. “It has been
H a lcó n 2 . H o rizo nte c h as a llie d with
29
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights CONACyt to make this process a reality.
turboprops and gas turbines. The company
The certifications involve the evaluation
is also supporting Bajio’s cluster goals.
of the airplane’s design, production and
G ua n ajuato h as a stro ng a uto m otive
maintenance, among other characteristics.
industry supported by certified companies
However, Mexican regulations have gaps
with highly qualified human capital and well-
that make the certification process harder.
established processes. Through companies
For example, regulations force companies
like Horizontec and the work of clusters, the
to show an import certification, which
state’s aerospace industry can also position
Horizontec cannot fulfill because it uses
itself in global supply chains.
local supplies. “Certifying Horizontec’s Halcón 1 and 2 may have been a tedious
“Our goal as a cluster is to help those
process, but their design, production and
companies transition and begin
bilateral certifications provides international
manufacturing for the aerospace sector.
legitimacy for immediate export,” said
Guanajuato’s companies are highly focused
Edgar Martínez Ortega, Project Manager
on developing technology. The cluster has
and Certification Area, Horizontec.
been expanding its use of technology and embracing trends, such as machine learning,
The production and certification of the
AI and big data, which has allowed us to
Halcón 2 is only the beginning of Horizontec’s
identify unexplored market niches,” said
future plans. By the end of 2022, the brand
Óscar Rodríguez, President Bajio Aerospace
expects to have produced about 50 aircraft
Cluster (BJXAerospace) to MBN.
and between 15 and 20 units during 2023. “Through the production of an efficient and
After 70 years of not having an aircraft
cost-effective asset, we aim to democratize
designed and produced in Mexico,
aviation,” said Angelucci.
Horizontec came to shift the country’s aeronautical history in 2014. The company
Horizontec aims to partner with aviation
has launched the Halcón 1 and is developing
schools because its safety elements, such as
th e H a l có n 2 , wh ich will b e co m e it s
the incorporated parachutes, could help to
fi r s t co m m e rcia l p ro d u c t . I n n ovative
train future pilots. “Halcón’s project model is
technologies and composite materials are
an ideal asset for the more than 150 aviation
some of the characteristics that make these
schools working to train tomorrow’s talent,
aircraft unique. They also showcase the
given its safety measures for both the pilots
engineering capabilities of Mexican talent,
and the prototype,” said Angelucci.
while offering a light sports-quality aircraft.
H o rizo nte c is b o os ti n g G u a n a j u ato’s
“The Halcón 2 aims to address the needs
aerospace industry, which in 2020 exported
of Mexican aviation by offering competitive
US$5.8 million in aero parts, turbojets,
advantages such as efficiency, low flight-
30
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights hour costs, ergonomics and safety during
D e s p i te t h e c h a l l e n g e s , H o r i zo n te c
flight. Besides, it is composed of quality
succeeded in developing and certifying the
materials and well-designed,” said Diego
Halcón 1 and is in line to certify the Halcón
Sinhue, Governor of Guanajuato, during the
2. Horizontec has allied with CONACyt to
inauguration of Horizontec’s new plant.
make this process a reality. The certifications involve the evaluation of the airplane’s design,
Being a pioneer in the sector brough
production and maintenance, among other
Horizontec several challenges. “ It has
characteristics. However, Mexican regulations
been challenging to find trusted suppliers
have gaps that make the certification process
because they did not have our knowhow
harder. For example, regulations force
nor met our expectations. This forced
companies to show an import certification,
Horizontec to build these capabilities,” said
which Horizontec cannot fulfill because it
Humberto Montaño Valdez, Operations
uses local supplies. “Certifying Horizontec’s
Manager and Design Area, Horizontec.
Halcón 1 and 2 may have been a tedious process, but their design, production and
The implementation of composite
bilateral certifications provides international
materials has not been easy. Although
legitimacy for immediate export,” said Edgar
the use of carbon fiber makes aircraf t
Martínez Ortega, Project Manager and
lig hte r, few co m p a n i e s u se it so th e
Certification Area, Horizontec.
calculations to use it had to be developed by Horizontec’s engineers. This process
The production and certification of the
require the development of a new software.
Halcón 2 is only the beginning of Horizontec’s
“Horizontec has developed an engineering
future plans. By the end of 2022, the brand
platform with the capacity to design and
expects to have produced about 50 aircraft
test structural and aerodynamic models
and between 15 and 20 units during 2023.
for the accelerated construction of new
“Through the production of an efficient and
prototypes,” said Giovanni Angelucci, CEO,
cost-effective asset, we aim to democratize
Horizontec.
aviation,” said Angelucci.
Moreover, supplies were hard to find. At
Horizontec aims to partner with aviation
the beginning, the company struggled
schools because its safety elements, such as
with finding suppliers of quality materials,
the incorporated parachutes, could help to
leading the company to develop
train future pilots. “Halcón’s project model is
alternatives and bet on the diversification
an ideal asset for the more than 150 aviation
of its supplier base and look for alternatives
schools working to train tomorrow’s talent,
of common materials. Horizontec also faced
given its safety measures for both the pilots
a gap between design and manufacturing
and the prototype,” said Angelucci.
that had to be reduced through efficient communication. It also struggled to find
H o r izo nte c i s b o o s ti n g G u a n a j u ato ’s
qualified professionals.
a e r o s p a c e i n d u s t r y, w h i c h i n 2 0 2 0
31
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights exported US$5. 8 million in aero parts,
“Our goal as a cluster is to help those
turbojets, turboprops and gas turbines.
companies transition and begin
The company is also supporting Bajio’s
manufacturing for the aerospace sector.
cluster goals. Guanajuato has a strong
Guanajuato’s companies are highly focused
automotive industry supported by certified
on developing technology. The cluster has
companies with highly qualified human
been expanding its use of technology
capital and well-established processes.
and embracing trends, such as machine
Through companies like Horizontec and
learning, AI and big data, which has allowed
the work of clusters, the state’s aerospace
us to identify unexplored market niches,”
industry can also position itself in global
said Óscar Rodríguez, President Bajio
supply chains.
Aerospace Cluster (BJXAerospace) to MBN.
ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY: THE NEW FRONTIER IN DISRUPTIVE INNOVATION The high concentration of people and
succeeds, huge changes happen in a short
vehicles in urban centers has led to high
time,” said Antonio Campello, Founder,
levels of pollution, while trapping many
Innova 2 Elevate.
people in traffic for long periods. These trends have led to a decrease in life quality
While A AM is still not a reality, many
but both traffic and pollution could be
companies are making great strides to
reduced through the introduction of a
make this technology possible and introduce
disruptive innovation that can optimize
environmentally friendly vehicles to cities.
traffic in cities: Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).
Developers are investing in electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL), electric
AAM, referring to the concept of using
conventional takeoff and landing (eCTOL)
vertical takeoff and landing vehicles in
and electric short take-off and landing
urban areas, has the potential to drastically
(eSTOL) technologies, all of which produce
change the way people travel and the way
no CO2 emissions. Through new technologies
people live in the cities and its surroundings.
and business models, the goal to achieve eco
Nowadays, AAM is one of the disruptive
air transportation for short and mid-range
and eco-friendly innovations that can drive
distances, at an accessible price, is becoming
social transformation. But for innovation
more viable. Optimally, the ticket’s price of
to be truly disruptive its benefits must
air mobility should be as low as possible
be available for a large percentage of the
to allow millions of people within a city or
population. “When a disruptive innovation
country-side to fly free of traffic.
32
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights
To make air mobility possible, new business
A AM will also create new business
models that will assure affordable ticket
opportunities that will ignite economic
pricing should be pursued. These business
g row t h . A i rc r a f t m a n u f a c t u r i n g a n d
models should consider an initial fare of
its related value chain are some of the
US$5 per mile per person and throughout
new areas of opportunity where Mexico
time lower the fare to US$2 per mile per
c a n s h ow a c o m p e t i t i ve a d v a n t a g e ,
person, said Campello. These fares will
explained Campello. Cities must prepare
allow air mobility to compete with ground
and business readapt to capture the new
transportation.
opportunities brought about by this trend.
To provide faster air transportation of both
Before entering the mainstream, AAM will
passengers and cargo, a new ecosystem
have to overcome several obstacles. Chief
must be created. Hubs for multimodal
among these challenges is energy storage,
transpor tation will be fundamental to
which still has to mature to allow these
develop air mobility. Existing installations
aircraft to be fueled by electricity during
like shopping malls can be adapted to
the time it takes the vehicle to complete its
host multimodal transpor tation hubs ,
route. Moreover, AAM certification is still in
as the added flexibility will encourage
its early stages and clear quality standards
businesses.
for product, manufacturing and operation must be defined and agreed upon.
Disruptive innovation will demand new regulations. Authorities in Mexico
Direct operating costs will be the key driver
and abroad are closely following the
of the adoption of AAM. When operating
potential of air mobility. Everything that
costs drop, further implementation of
flies should be under the supervision of
AAM solutions will become more attractive
the aeronautical authorities to provide
and economically viable. However, public
a s a fe a n d e ffi c i e nt e nvi ro n m e nt fo r
acceptance and adaptation will define the
future air mobility and transportation,
success of AAM. Adapting to disruptive
explained Campello.
innovation might cause resistance. The speed at which societies incorporate AAMs
The AAM boom is approaching. Morgan
into their daily lives will mark the degree of
Stanley estimates this market will be valued
success of this disruptive innovation.
at US$1 trillion by 2040. When excess liquidity merges with disruptive innovation,
“A disruptive innovation process with a
it allows for startup businesses to develop
cultural change that includes social and
faster, accelerating technological maturity.
environmental benefits will transform
In the case of AAM, the ride ticket price
social interac tions and guide societ y
will be the breakthrough that will show
toward sustainability and wellbeing. That
the maturity of this technology, potentially
is the potential AAM has to revolutionize
allowing the market to take off.
our transport dynamics,” said Campello.
33
Conference Highlights THE BOOMING AEROSPACE INDUSTRY NEEDS A STRONGER WORKFORCE Attracting and retaining talent in the
exploration, said Landeros. “Missions to the
a e ros p a ce i n d u s tr y h a s a lways b e e n
moon and mars are far too advanced for
challenging but it has proved especially
Mexico not to have prepared professionals
difficult over the past few years due to the
to join,” he added. “This would also require
rise of high-tech companies in other fields.
professionals trained on space medicine,
The shortage has put many companies
chemistry and biology to identify ancient
in a fierce competition for the best and
organic compounds on Mars.”
the brightest. As a result, the industry is looking for professionals with a new
Beyond training a new aerospace workforce,
skillset that includes management of
the industry is also reincorporating the
communication abilities.
displaced employees who lost their jobs as a result of the economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In the past six months,
“We are receiving colleagues that share
the industry has reintegrated 5,000 workers
our values of creativity, respect and
that were let go during that period. “As we
innovation. As such, we provide our
hire more people, we are noticing that a lot
current workers with the skills for
of people come from other states of the
novel technologies and novel
country, specially from the northern region
consumption behavior”
Ana Molina Human Resources Senior Manager | Airbus
of Mexico,” said Pérez. The need for professionals in this industry makes integration and reintegration easy, said Pérez. He added that recruiters are
“After the pandemic, we are looking for quick,
looking for experience and skills. Thus,
adaptable and flexible professionals that
“competent professionals will for sure have
know how to balance technical and personal
a place at Safran.”
skills such as teamwork, empathy and skills on personal communication,” said Efrain
While the space industry is growing rapidly,
Pérez, Talent Acquisition and Compensation
it “did not have displaced workers; we are
Manager, Safran.
currently hiring and investment in this sector is growing, meaning that we need more
The aerospace and space sectors are
people for the incoming projects that this
increasingly looking for professionals to work
investment will generate,” said Landeros.
in satellites, communication, aviation and air observation, among other areas. This means
French planemaker Airbus reports a similar
seeking workers with diverse backgrounds
situation: “We are growing and facing a ramp
that can leverage new technologies like
up,” said Ana Molina, Human Resources
additive manufacturing, robotics, modeling
Senior Manager, Airbus Helicopters México
and simulation. These workers must also
Querétaro. “We are receiving colleagues
be capable of using the latest virtual tools
that share our values of creativity, respect
to help accelerate production to meet the
and innovation. As such, we provide our
demand. For example, the Mexican Space
current workers with the skills for novel
Agency (AEM) needs experts in the analysis
technologies and novel consumption
and processing of satellite images, remote
behavior.”
sensing and air observation, said General Director Salvador Landeros Ayala.
The aerospace industry is highly dynamic, said Pérez, so workers have the opportunity
There is an urgent need to educate and
to move and grow quickly. Thus, each
train professionals in space and space
company needs to ensure it offers the
34
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights best conditions to their employees. “As a
have programs for telecommunications,
company, we need to be more conscious
computer science and mechanics, among
about our talent and offer personalized
other technical careers, he added.
b e n e fi t s t h a t a r e a t t r a c t i ve to n e w generations with things such as home office,
“We are currently experiencing a period of
insurance and attractive mobility options
opportunity to innovate and recreate the
so employees can work internationally to
good practices we have been working with
expand their knowledge,” said Pérez.
to reach more professionals,” said Molina. “Thus, if we teach them the right skills, these
Beyond on the job training, the industry
professionals will come to our companies as
needs to rely on academia. “We need more
long as we have the right offer to respond
undergraduate and graduate programs
to their talent.”
at universities. We currently have very few programs for the space industry and
Mexican talent is recognized around the
we are going to need many experts in the
world for its quality, said Enrique Sosa,
coming years so we need to start enhancing
Dean, UNAQ. “There are many Mexican
education, not just in aerospace but in
experts in aerospace and aeronautics but
space careers,” said Landeros. This should
there is indeed an urgency to retain them
not be difficult as universities already
in the country.”
MEXICO’S AEROSPACE INDUSTRY IS BOUNCING BACK Before 2020, Mexico’s aerospace industry
Mexico was the 12th largest aerospace
was growing at an accelerate d pace.
exporting country.
B ut th e COVI D -1 9 pa n d e mic bro ught a decrease in expor ts and drastically
The industry kept growing at an accelerated
reduced travel, greatly slowing down
pace before the COVID -19 pandemic .
aircraft production. As the Russia-Ukraine
I n 2 0 1 9 , M ex i c o h a d 3 6 8 a e ro s p a c e
war and COVID-19 variants keep delaying
b usin ess unit s . O f th ose , 8 6 p e rce nt
the sector ’s recover y, the rebound of
were manufacturing plants, followed by
the aerospace sector hinges on growth
Maintenance Repair Overhaul (MRO) units
oppor tunities such as the forec asted
with 12 percent and design and engineering
demand of narrow-body aircraft and the
plants with 11 percent. Most of those plants
upcoming space sector.
were concentrated in the north of the country, with Baja California reporting the
“Between 2014 and 2019, the aerospace industry was considered a new sector with exceptional growth mainly in commercial aeronautics”
largest number of aerospace facilities. The industry was responsible for over 60,000 direct jobs in 19 states. That year, aviation exports amounted to
Luis Gerardo Lizcano
US$9.68 billion, making Mexico the sixth
President | FEMIA
largest exporter of aerospace parts to the US. “Overall, 2019 was a successful year for the industry in Mexico,” said Lizcano.
“Between 2014 and 2019, the aerospace industry was considered a new sector with
However, the aviation industry received
exceptional growth mainly in commercial
a blow in 2019 with the grounding of
aeronautics,” said Luis Lizcano, General
the Boeing 737 Max, but its production
D i re c to r, M exi c a n Fe d e r ati o n of th e
continued until early 2020. Once production
Aerospace Industry (FEMIA). During that
of the 737 Max stopped, Boeing’s shares
period, the industry reported a positive
dropped by 3.3 percent. During that period,
trade balance of 18 percent and by 2016,
COVID-19 cases were quickly rising and
35
C onf e r e nc e H ighlights starting to seriously impact the global
Boosting the recovery of the industry is
economy. Both the grounding of the 737
the fact that people are traveling again,
Max and the COVID-19 pandemic greatly
which will increase demand for narrow-
affected the aerospace industry, with OEMs
body aircraft. Demand for air cargo also
dramatically reducing production of new
increased following the e-commerce boom,
aircraft and global air passenger traffic
which forced airlines to transform their
decreasing to levels not seen in decades.
fleet according to the needs of the market.
G l o b a lly, co m m e rci a l a i rc raf t o rd e r s
T h e g l o b a l i n d u s t r y m a r ke t o u tl o o k
decreased by 59 percent in 2020. In
suggests that in the future there will be
April 2020, Mexico’s aerospace exports
an emphasis on fleet versatility. The cargo
dramatically decreased. Compared with
sector is still affected by the global context
2019, exports contracted by 31.8 percent.
but the COVID-19 outbreak allowed the sector to become more relevant to the
Fortunately, Mexico’s aerospace industry
economy. During the COVID-19 outbreak,
started to bounce back in 2021 as exports
“cargo transpor tation was globally
increased by 6 percent. However, the
considered an essential activity for the
sector has not recovered its pre-pandemic
continuity of economic activities and most
numbers. By late 2022, experts hope for
importantly for the lives of people,” said
an increase of 16 percent in exports but
Jorge L. Torres, Vice President, FedEx
forecast that they will not surpass 2019’s
Express Mexico.
levels until 2024, explained Lizcano. Although the sec tor is recovering , The industr y keeps facing several
companies must focus on building more
challenges delaying its growth. “Although
resilient supply chains that can handle
the COVID-19 recovery phase is underway,
future shocks. Supply chains must be
the outbreak of SARS- CoV-2 variants
prepared to endure highly disruptive
continues to destabilize the market. By early
events and quickly recover. Mexico also has
2022, the industry expected more vigorous
the opportunity to restructure its supply
growth but the Omicron variant delayed
chains by diversifying them to become
this process,” said Lizcano. Moreover, the
less dependent on single sources. Other
Ukraine-Russia conflict caused a disruption
opportunities are also arising. “Space is
in logistics and hindered the supply of
becoming a trend and Mexico should start
titanium, which is produced in the region.
exploiting this opportunity,” said Lizcano.
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