GKN Aerospace Expands Chihuahua Facility to Boost EWIS Production

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Image Courtesy GKN Aerospace

GKN Aerospace has expanded its manufacturing operations in Chihuahua, Mexico, with the commissioning of an additional production building, reinforcing its commitment to the North American aerospace market. The expansion follows the major increase in the site’s manufacturing capacity completed in July 2024, when the facility was doubled to 160,000 square feet.

The latest expansion will support the company’s growing Electrical Wiring Interconnection Systems (EWIS) business while strengthening its ability to deliver advanced aerospace solutions for commercial and defence customers across the region. The new building enhances GKN Aerospace’s manufacturing footprint by integrating EWIS production with its established expertise in composite and metal aerostructures. This integrated approach is expected to improve production efficiency, strengthen supply chain capabilities and enable the company to meet the increasing demand for advanced aerospace systems from leading aircraft manufacturers.

The Chihuahua facility has become one of GKN Aerospace’s key manufacturing centres, supporting several major aviation programmes through the production of high-quality components and systems. The additional capacity will improve delivery schedules and support the company’s long-standing partnerships with leading aircraft manufacturers, including Gulfstream, Airbus and Honda Aircraft.

Speaking on the expansion, Enrique Alatorre, Senior Vice President, EWIS, GKN Aerospace, said the commissioning of the new building marks another important milestone in the company’s growth strategy in Mexico. He noted that expanding EWIS operations alongside the site’s existing aerostructures capabilities allows GKN Aerospace to provide integrated manufacturing solutions to customers across North America.

He added that the investment reflects the company’s confidence in Chihuahua’s highly skilled workforce, strong industrial infrastructure and strategic importance in supporting the future growth of the aerospace industry. According to him, the expanded facility will play a significant role in delivering advanced technologies that contribute to the next generation of sustainable aviation.

The project has received strong support from the Government of Chihuahua and builds on the successful expansion completed in 2024, which created more than 200 skilled jobs across engineering, manufacturing and specialised production functions. The latest investment is expected to further strengthen employment opportunities while supporting the continued development of the state’s aerospace manufacturing ecosystem.

Governor Maru Campos welcomed the expansion and said GKN Aerospace’s continued investment highlights Chihuahua’s growing importance as a global aerospace manufacturing destination. She stated that the confidence shown by international companies reflects the strength of the state’s skilled workforce, competitive business environment and government support for industrial growth and innovation.

She added that the state government remains committed to working closely with GKN Aerospace to encourage further investment, create high-value employment opportunities and strengthen Chihuahua’s position as one of North America’s leading aerospace manufacturing hubs.

GKN Aerospace continues to expand its global manufacturing network to support increasing demand for advanced aircraft structures, engine systems and electrical technologies. The Chihuahua facility plays an important role in this strategy by combining advanced engineering capabilities with modern production technologies to deliver high-quality solutions for commercial and defence aviation customers.