Diehl Aviation Expands Aerospace Manufacturing with Querétaro Facility

Diehl Aviation’s Strategic Expansion into Mexico: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Querétaro Facility and Its Impact on North American Aerospace Manufacturing

Diehl Aviation’s inauguration of its new manufacturing facility in Querétaro, Mexico, marks a pivotal milestone in the company’s global strategy and underscores Mexico’s ascent as a world-class aerospace manufacturing hub. The facility, developed with a double-digit million Euro investment and spanning over 8,200 square meters, with plans for further expansion, positions Diehl Aviation closer to major North American clients such as Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier, and Embraer. This move is set against the backdrop of Mexico’s rapidly expanding aerospace sector, which ranks 12th globally and has been experiencing robust growth and export activity. The Querétaro site will initially produce overhead stowage compartments for the Airbus A220, with future plans to manufacture interior components for emerging urban air mobility platforms, signaling Diehl Aviation’s commitment to both established and next-generation aerospace markets.

This development is not just a reflection of Diehl Aviation’s growth ambitions but also of broader industry trends, including nearshoring, supply chain optimization, and the strategic importance of Mexico’s aerospace clusters. Querétaro, in particular, has emerged as a central node in the North American aerospace landscape, attracting significant foreign investment and fostering collaboration among industry, academia, and government. As Diehl Aviation integrates into this vibrant ecosystem, the implications for regional economic development, supply chain resilience, and technological advancement are substantial.

In this article, we explore the strategic rationale behind Diehl Aviation’s investment, the significance of Querétaro as an aerospace hub, the current state of Mexico’s aerospace industry, and the broader implications for global aerospace manufacturing and supply chains.

Diehl Aviation’s Strategic Investment in Querétaro

Diehl Aviation’s new manufacturing facility in Querétaro represents the company’s most significant step into the Americas to date. Located in the PyMe Industrial Park near Santiago de Querétaro, the facility initially offers over 8,200 square meters of production and office space, with a second expansion phase planned to add between 4,000 and 6,000 square meters. This substantial investment demonstrates Diehl Aviation’s long-term commitment to the region and confidence in Mexico’s aerospace capabilities.

The timeline for the Querétaro project began in 2024, with the company set to move into the facility in March 2025. Production started soon after the official inauguration, focusing on manufacturing overhead stowage compartments for the Airbus A220. These components are destined for Airbus assembly facilities in Mirabel, Quebec, and Mobile, Alabama, highlighting the facility’s role in serving North American markets. The workforce is expected to grow from about 20 employees at launch to around 500 over the medium term, reflecting a careful, phased approach to growth and training.

Beyond the Airbus A220 project, Diehl Aviation plans to expand the site’s capabilities to include interior components for Eve’s eVTOL aircraft, positioning the company to capitalize on the emerging urban air mobility market. The location in Querétaro offers operational advantages such as time zone alignment with final assembly lines in Brazil, Canada, and the U.S., reduced transport times to customers, and the ability to develop a robust local supply chain. These factors contribute to cost efficiency, supply chain resilience, and enhanced customer collaboration.

“The new site in Querétaro is a significant milestone for us. It allows us to be closer to our North American customers, optimize our supply chain, and tap into the region’s skilled workforce.” — Dr. Jörg Schuler, CEO, Diehl Aviation

The Querétaro facility is not just a manufacturing site, it is designed as a strategic customer collaboration hub. This approach enables Diehl Aviation to respond more quickly to customer needs, integrate feedback into product development, and strengthen relationships with major aerospace manufacturers in the Americas.

Querétaro as Mexico’s Aerospace Manufacturing Hub

Querétaro has rapidly emerged as one of Mexico’s foremost aerospace clusters, attracting leading international companies and fostering a collaborative ecosystem that spans industry, academia, and government. Over 80 aerospace firms currently operate in the region, creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs and contributing to the state’s reputation as a magnet for foreign direct investment (FDI).

The region’s infrastructure is a key enabler of its aerospace success. The Querétaro Intercontinental Airport, specialized industrial parks, and the presence of the Aeronautical University of Querétaro (UNAQ) provide logistical, operational, and workforce development support. The inauguration of a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Laboratory at UNAQ further underscores the region’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in aviation.

FDI in Querétaro’s aerospace sector reached $292.8 million between 2006 and early 2024, ranking it among the top recipients nationally. Major manufacturers such as Bombardier, Safran, Airbus, and General Electric have established significant operations in the region. Bombardier’s facility, for example, employs approximately 1,200 people and manufactures complex components for business jets, demonstrating the depth of expertise and capability present in Querétaro.

Employment in Querétaro’s aerospace sector is on an upward trajectory, with projections indicating that the industry will exceed 12,000 jobs by 2024, an 18% increase over pre-pandemic levels. The Aerocluster Querétaro, the region’s aerospace industry association, has also grown, reflecting diversification into areas such as drone operations and advanced materials manufacturing.

“Querétaro’s aerospace cluster is a testament to Mexico’s ability to attract and retain world-class manufacturing operations, thanks to its skilled workforce, infrastructure, and collaborative environment.”

Mexico’s Aerospace Industry Landscape and Growth Trajectory

Mexico is now the 12th largest aerospace producer globally and the leading exporter of aerospace components in Latin America. The aerospace sector accounts for 29% of the country’s total exports and contributes 3.5% to GDP, reflecting its strategic importance to the national economy. The industry has maintained an impressive annual growth rate of over 14% for the past 15 years.

The sector’s value is projected to rise from US$11.2 billion in 2024 to US$22.7 billion by 2029, according to some estimates. This growth is fueled by Mexico’s strategic location, trade agreements such as the USMCA, and a skilled, competitively priced labor force. The industry directly employs about 60,000 workers and supports up to 1.4 million jobs across related sectors.

Mexico’s aerospace capabilities have evolved from basic assembly to the production of complex, high-value components such as wire harnesses, engines, fuselages, and interior systems. The adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies, including artificial intelligence, automation, and Industry 4.0 practices, has enhanced productivity, quality, and supply chain integration. These technological advancements, coupled with robust training programs and partnerships with educational institutions, have made Mexico a preferred destination for aerospace investment.

Foreign direct investment remains strong, with more than $3.7 billion invested since 2006 and over $750 million expected in 2024 alone. The country’s aerospace ecosystem is distributed across 19 states, with 386 companies operating 370 specialized plants as of mid-2024.

“Mexico’s aerospace industry has become a cornerstone of our manufacturing economy, driving exports, employment, and technological innovation.”

Strategic Market Positioning and Customer Relationships

Diehl Aviation’s Querétaro facility is central to the company’s strategy of enhancing its market position and strengthening relationships with key customers. Proximity to major OEMs such as Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier, and Embraer allows for faster response times, improved collaboration, and reduced lead times, all of which are critical in the highly competitive aerospace sector.

The partnership with Airbus is particularly noteworthy. Diehl Aviation has been selected to develop and produce the Airspace XL Bins for the Airbus A220, offering 20% more stowage capacity than previous models. This marks Diehl Aviation’s first representation on the A220 platform and demonstrates its ability to deliver innovative, customer-focused solutions.

In addition to established markets, Diehl Aviation is positioning itself in the emerging eVTOL segment through its collaboration with Eve Air Mobility. The company will design and produce the entire interior for Eve’s eVTOL aircraft, including advanced lighting systems and eco-efficient materials. This partnership exemplifies Diehl Aviation’s commitment to innovation and its ability to adapt to evolving market demands.

The Querétaro facility is expected to serve as a collaborative space for customer engagement, similar to Diehl Aviation’s Customer Collaboration Space in Everett, Washington. Such facilities enable face-to-face meetings, technical demonstrations, and the integration of customer feedback into product development.

“Our proximity to key customers allows us to be more agile and responsive, which is essential in today’s dynamic aerospace market.”

Supply Chain Optimization and Manufacturing Excellence

The establishment of the Querétaro facility is a strategic response to supply chain challenges that have affected the aerospace industry since the COVID-19 pandemic. Diehl Aviation has implemented measures such as inventory buffers, dual sourcing, and supplier support to mitigate disruptions and ensure reliable delivery to OEMs.

The facility’s location reduces transit times and enhances supply chain resilience, while the phased approach to workforce development ensures that employees are properly trained to meet stringent safety and quality standards. The integration of advanced manufacturing technologies and best practices from Diehl Aviation’s global operations further supports operational excellence.

Sustainability is a core focus, with innovations such as ECO Thermoplastic Ducting and ECO Powder Coating being integrated into manufacturing processes. These technologies reduce weight, improve efficiency, and support environmental objectives without compromising performance.

“Sustainable manufacturing is not just an option; it’s a necessity for the future of aviation.”

Technological Innovation and Future Market Trends

Diehl Aviation’s entry into the eVTOL market, through its partnership with Eve Air Mobility, highlights the company’s forward-looking approach to technological innovation. The development of advanced interior systems for electric aircraft requires new design paradigms, materials, and safety systems tailored to urban air mobility.

Artificial intelligence and digitalization are increasingly integral to aerospace manufacturing. The Querétaro facility will leverage AI-driven automation, predictive maintenance, and Industry 4.0 technologies to enhance efficiency, quality control, and traceability.

The company’s experience in avionics and cabin management systems, coupled with its involvement in major European and international aerospace programs, positions it to contribute to the development of autonomous flight systems and next-generation aviation technologies.

“By investing in advanced manufacturing and digitalization, we are building the foundation for the next era of aerospace innovation.”

Economic Impact and Regional Development

Diehl Aviation’s Querétaro facility is expected to have a significant economic impact, both locally and nationally. The planned workforce expansion to 500 employees will contribute to regional employment growth, while the development of local supply chains will create additional opportunities for suppliers and service providers.

The aerospace sector’s multiplier effect extends to indirect and induced employment, supporting a wide range of industries beyond manufacturing. The facility’s contribution to Mexico’s export capacity, tax revenues, and regional competitiveness further underscores its importance to economic development.

High-profile investments like Diehl Aviation’s also serve as a catalyst for further FDI, signaling the region’s attractiveness to other international aerospace companies and strengthening Querétaro’s position as a global aerospace hub.

Global Industry Context and Competitive Dynamics

Diehl Aviation’s expansion into Mexico reflects broader global trends in aerospace manufacturing, including nearshoring, supply chain diversification, and increased demand for aerospace products and services. The USMCA framework provides additional advantages for companies serving North American markets, such as favorable tariffs and regulatory alignment.

The company’s investment supports its competitive positioning by enhancing proximity to customers, accessing skilled labor, and leveraging cost efficiencies. Sustainability, regulatory compliance, and technological innovation are increasingly important differentiators in the global aerospace industry.

As the industry evolves, Diehl Aviation’s strategic investments in Mexico and elsewhere will be critical to maintaining its leadership in an environment characterized by rapid change and high standards.

“Strategic investments in supply chain resilience and proximity are shaping the future of global aerospace manufacturing.”

Conclusion

Diehl Aviation’s Querétaro facility represents a significant step in the company’s global expansion and reflects the broader transformation of aerospace manufacturing in North America. The investment strengthens Diehl Aviation’s relationships with key customers, enhances supply chain resilience, and positions the company to capitalize on both established and emerging market opportunities.

As Mexico’s aerospace industry continues its impressive growth, strategic investments like Diehl Aviation’s will play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of the sector. The Querétaro facility serves as a model for how international aerospace companies can leverage Mexico’s capabilities, infrastructure, and workforce to achieve operational excellence and drive innovation in a rapidly changing industry.

FAQ

What products will Diehl Aviation manufacture at the Querétaro facility?
The facility will initially produce overhead stowage compartments for the Airbus A220 and plans to expand into manufacturing interior components for Eve’s eVTOL aircraft in the future.

Why did Diehl Aviation choose Querétaro for its new site?
Querétaro offers operational advantages such as proximity to major customers, skilled workforce, robust infrastructure, and a collaborative aerospace cluster environment.

How will the new facility impact employment in the region?
Diehl Aviation expects to grow its workforce from around 20 employees at launch to approximately 500 over the medium term, contributing to local employment growth and regional economic development.

What is the significance of Mexico’s aerospace industry globally?
Mexico is the 12th largest aerospace producer in the world and the leading aerospace exporter in Latin America, with strong growth, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and significant contributions to employment and exports.

How does Diehl Aviation address sustainability in its operations?
The company integrates sustainable manufacturing technologies such as ECO Thermoplastic Ducting and ECO Powder Coating, aiming to reduce environmental impact while maintaining high performance.

Sources: Diehl Aviation