Collins Aerospace Enhances Aircraft Electrification with New Facilities in Europe

Collins Aerospace Enhances Electrification Efforts in Europe

In a significant development for the aerospace industry, Collins Aerospace, a subsidiary of RTX (NYSE: RTX), has announced the expansion of its aircraft electrification capabilities through the launch of two new facilities in Europe. The company's new engineering center of excellence in Wolverhampton, UK, and an electric thrust reverser actuation systems (elecTRAS™) production line in Colomiers, France, mark a pivotal step towards sustainable aviation.

The Wolverhampton facility is focused on innovating and developing next-generation electric thrust reverser actuation systems intended for commercial aircraft. Equipped with state-of-the-art design and testing capabilities, the center aims to foster advancements in aircraft technology. Meanwhile, the Colomiers production line will finalize assembly for these sophisticated electric systems, thereby enhancing production efficiency and capacity in the process.

One of the vital benefits arising from this shift involves transitioning from traditional hydraulic-powered thrust reverser actuation systems to the advanced elecTRAS. This innovative approach allows for the design of nacelle systems that are not only easier for customers to install and maintain but also significantly reduce the overall weight of aircraft systems by 15-20%. Such weight reductions lead to improved fuel efficiency and operational performance for airlines.

Collins currently provides the elecTRAS systems for the Airbus A350 family, underlining their commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into commercial aviation. Thrust reversers play a crucial role in the aircraft’s nacelle system by redirecting thrust from the engines when landing, thus helping the aircraft slow down more efficiently.

With the added assembly capabilities in Colomiers, Collins is poised to boost nacelle integration and further enhance customer relations by providing proximity to their innovative solutions. This collective effort serves to strengthen Collins' aircraft electrification capacities, a crucial aspect for supporting their global clientele as the industry moves towards more sustainable practices.

Ajay Mahajan, the president of Aerostructures at Collins Aerospace, emphasized the importance of this development, stating, "With decades of experience in nacelles, thrust reversers, and aircraft electrification, Collins' elecTRAS center of excellence and production line will bring together expertise from across the company to deliver new, innovative solutions for our customers and future platforms." He reiterated that these investments in aircraft electrification technologies are crucial to making future aircraft easier to maintain and more operationally efficient.

The Wolverhampton engineering site will collaborate closely with Collins' Aerostructures headquarters located in Chula Vista, California, and other international engineering centers, forming integral partnerships that will drive advancement in the field. Furthermore, it will engage with Collins' electronic controls and motor systems center of excellence situated in Solihull, UK.

The newly developed elecTRAS has accrued impressive operational experience, with over 600 A350XWB aircraft in service as of the end of 2024, contributing around 11 million flight hours and 1.8 million flight cycles.

About Collins Aerospace

Collins Aerospace is a renowned leader in providing integrated and intelligent solutions to the global aerospace and defense industries. With a dedicated workforce of 80,000 employees, the company focuses on delivering future-oriented technologies that promote sustainable aviation, enhance passenger safety and comfort, and support mission successes in both civil and defense applications.

About RTX

RTX stands as the world's leading aerospace and defense organization, boasting more than 185,000 employees worldwide. The company is at the forefront of technological advancements, redefining connectivity and security. Through its industry-leading businesses, including Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon, RTX is committed to future advancements in aviation and next-generation technology solutions. In 2024, RTX reported impressive sales exceeding $80 billion, establishing its position as an industry powerhouse headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.