MRO & Manufacturing
Mexico Returns to Aircraft Manufacturing with Halcón 2 1 Certification
Mexico certifies the Halcón 2.1, its first domestically designed aircraft in 70 years, marking a new chapter in aerospace manufacturing.
Mexico Returns to Aircraft Manufacturing with the Halcón 2.1: A Historic Achievement in Domestic Aviation Production
After seven decades without producing a domestically designed and manufactured aircraft, Mexico has achieved a significant milestone with the certification of the Halcón 2.1, marking the country’s return to the global aviation Manufacturing sector. This breakthrough represents more than just an engineering achievement; it signals Mexico’s strategic positioning within the rapidly expanding aerospace industry and demonstrates the nation’s capability to develop sophisticated technological products that meet international standards. The successful Certification of the Halcón 2.1 by Mexico’s Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) establishes a foundation for the country’s renewed ambitions in aircraft manufacturing, potentially catalyzing broader industrial development across multiple sectors while positioning Mexico as a competitive player in the global light sport aircraft market.
The Halcón 2.1 project, spearheaded by Horizontec, arrives at a critical juncture for Mexican industry. It not only revives a dormant sector but also serves as a testament to the nation’s growing engineering and manufacturing prowess. As Mexico seeks to diversify its economy and reduce reliance on imports, the Halcón 2.1 stands as a symbol of technological self-reliance and industrial ambition. This article examines the historical context, technical innovation, economic impact, and future implications of this landmark achievement.
Historical Context and Background
Mexico’s aviation manufacturing history stretches back to the early 20th century, with its most notable pre-Halcón achievement being the Lascurain Aura, a twin-engine regional aircraft designed by Angel Lascurain y Osio. The Aura was intended to connect remote populations across Mexico’s challenging geography, serving as a lifeline for communities lacking other forms of transportation. The aircraft’s design featured a mid-wing monocoque fuselage capable of carrying 12 to 14 passengers and was powered by two Jacobs R-755-A1 engines.
The tragic crash of the Lascurain Aura on December 24, 1957, at Mexico City International Airport, resulted in the loss of both the test pilot and the designer, effectively halting domestic aircraft production for nearly seventy years. This incident closed a chapter on what could have been a robust Mexican aviation industry, reminiscent of Brazil’s later success with Embraer. In the following decades, Mexico’s aerospace sector shifted focus, becoming a major hub for aerospace components and systems rather than complete aircraft, aided by the government’s Maquiladora program and the influx of international aerospace firms.
Today, Mexico’s aerospace industry is anchored by five regional clusters, with Baja California hosting over 100 aerospace firms and supporting more than 30,000 direct jobs. The sector has matured from assembling simple parts to producing complex airframes, Drones, and avionic assemblies. This industrial evolution paved the way for innovative companies like Horizontec to pursue the ambitious goal of reviving domestic aircraft manufacturing.
Technical Innovation and Design Excellence
The Halcón 2.1 is a showcase of modern engineering, utilizing advanced composite materials such as carbon fiber and resin for its primary structure. This choice delivers a superior strength-to-weight ratio, enhancing both performance and fuel efficiency. The aircraft is powered by a 141-horsepower Rotax 915 iS engine, which allows takeoff at altitudes up to 15,000 feet, a significant improvement over earlier models.
With a maximum cruise speed of 250 km/h and a range of roughly 1,100 kilometers, the Halcón 2.1 is well-suited for flight training, recreational flying, and aerial surveillance. Its three-blade propeller and modern Garmin glass cockpit Avionics further distinguish it from competitors, offering advanced navigation and safety features. Notably, the Halcón 2.1 can operate on premium automotive gasoline, reducing operational costs to about a quarter of similar aircraft that require aviation fuel.
The development process was not without challenges. Horizontec’s engineers had to devise proprietary methods for working with composite materials, as few local companies had relevant experience. This led to the creation of new software tools for structural and aerodynamic modeling, accelerating the design and prototyping process. The aircraft’s dimensions, seven meters in length and a 9.4-meter wingspan, are optimized for maneuverability and efficiency, with a two-seat, side-by-side configuration and fixed tricycle landing gear.
“The Halcón 2.1’s carbon fiber construction and fuel flexibility set a new standard for cost-effective, high-performance light sport aircraft in emerging markets.”
Economic Impact and Market Positioning
The economic significance of the Halcón 2.1 goes beyond aerospace. Horizontec invested over $10 million in its Celaya manufacturing facility, signaling confidence in Mexico’s industrial capabilities. The aircraft is priced at approximately $200,000, making it a compelling alternative to imported models for flight schools and private operators. Initial customer interest is strong, with 18 units already ordered and production capacity aimed at 20 aircraft per year, supporting around 140 jobs at the plant.
Mexico’s aerospace sector is on a growth trajectory, valued at $11.2 billion and expected to reach $22.7 billion by 2029. The industry supports over 50,000 direct and 190,000 indirect jobs, with exports projected to exceed $10 billion in 2024. The light sport aircraft market, in particular, is expanding globally, projected to grow from $1.21 billion in 2024 to $2.03 billion by 2033. These trends create a favorable environment for domestic manufacturers like Horizontec to gain market share both locally and internationally.
The Halcón 2.1’s competitive pricing and operational economy provide a strong value proposition, especially in markets where access to aviation fuel is limited or costly. By leveraging Mexico’s established aerospace supply chains and competitive labor costs, Horizontec can offer a product that is both high-quality and cost-effective. The company’s export ambitions, especially targeting the U.S. market, are well-supported by Mexico’s position as the world’s twelfth-largest aerospace exporter.
Regulatory Achievement and Certification Process
Certification by the Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) is a major milestone for the Halcón 2.1. The process required rigorous flight testing, beginning with the Maiden-Flight in 2022 at Celaya airport, and compliance with international safety standards. The certification was officially recognized in September 2024, with Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard participating in an exhibition flight, underscoring the government’s support for domestic aerospace innovation.
Navigating the certification process was challenging due to regulatory gaps. Mexican aviation regulations were primarily designed for imported aircraft, complicating approval for locally manufactured products. Horizontec worked closely with AFAC to address these issues, ultimately achieving certification for multiple operational categories, including flight training, recreational flying, and aerial surveillance.
This achievement not only validates the Halcón 2.1’s engineering but also sets a precedent for future Mexican aircraft projects. As AFAC’s director general Miguel Enrique Vallín Osuna noted, the certification reflects both technological innovation and confidence in national talent. The process also established regulatory pathways that other domestic manufacturers can follow.
“When Mexican talent takes off, it has no limits.” , General Miguel Enrique Vallín Osuna, AFAC Director General
Industry Context and Global Market Dynamics
The global light sport aircraft market is characterized by steady growth and diverse competition. While light sport aircraft represent a small share of the broader general aviation market, they account for a significant portion of recreational and training aircraft due to their affordability and versatility. In pilot training, these aircraft are favored for their low operating costs and ease of use, making up a notable share of flight school fleets.
Emerging markets, particularly in Asia, are driving global growth. China and India lead with compound annual growth rates of 9.0% and 8.4%, respectively, while established markets like the United States and Europe also show healthy expansion. This dynamic creates opportunities for new entrants like Horizontec to target both domestic and export markets, especially as demand for cost-effective training and recreational aircraft rises.
Mexico’s aerospace sector benefits from strong international ties, with foreign investment and technology transfer playing key roles. The 2025 Mexico Aerospace Fair (FAMEX) attracted hundreds of companies from dozens of countries, highlighting the sector’s global connectivity. These relationships provide a platform for Mexican manufacturers to access new markets and collaborate on advanced technologies.
Future Prospects and Strategic Implications
The Halcón 2.1’s success lays the groundwork for broader ambitions in Mexican aerospace. Horizontec’s co-founder Giovanni Angelucci has expressed optimism about designing and developing additional aircraft models, leveraging the engineering and manufacturing capabilities established with this project. The company’s substantial investment in infrastructure and talent positions it to expand production and pursue new market segments.
Government officials, including Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard, view the Halcón 2.1 as proof that Mexico can produce sophisticated, high-value products across industries. The project aligns with national strategies to reduce import dependency, boost exports, and foster high-tech employment. As Mexico’s aerospace sector continues to grow, the Halcón 2.1 could inspire similar initiatives, further strengthening the country’s position in the global aerospace economy.
Conclusion
The certification and production of the Halcón 2.1 mark a turning point for Mexican aviation. This achievement demonstrates that Mexico is capable of competing in high-technology industries, offering products that meet international standards for safety, performance, and cost-effectiveness. The project’s success reflects the maturation of Mexico’s aerospace sector and its potential to drive broader industrial and economic development.
Looking ahead, the Halcón 2.1’s legacy may extend far beyond its immediate market impact. By establishing a foundation for domestic aircraft manufacturing, fostering innovation in materials and engineering, and securing government and industry support, the project positions Mexico as a credible and competitive player in the global aerospace sector for years to come.
FAQ
What is the Halcón 2.1 and who manufactures it?
The Halcón 2.1 is a light sport aircraft designed and manufactured by Horizontec, a Mexican aerospace company based in Celaya, Guanajuato.
What are the main technical features of the Halcón 2.1?
The aircraft features a carbon fiber structure, a 141-horsepower Rotax 915 iS engine, a maximum cruise speed of 250 km/h, a range of 1,100 km, and a modern Garmin glass cockpit. It can operate on premium automotive gasoline.
Why is the Halcón 2.1 significant for Mexico?
It is the first domestically designed and certified aircraft in Mexico in nearly 70 years, marking a revival of the nation’s aircraft manufacturing capabilities and setting a precedent for future high-technology industrial projects.
What are the economic implications of the Halcón 2.1 project?
The project has attracted significant Investments, supports local employment, and positions Mexico to capture a share of the growing global light sport aircraft market, while also reducing reliance on imported aircraft.
Who are the target customers for the Halcón 2.1?
The aircraft is aimed at flight schools, private pilots, and organizations involved in aerial surveillance and training, both in Mexico and export markets like the United States.
Sources: Mexico News Daily
Photo Credit: Gobierno de México
MRO & Manufacturing
Collins Aerospace Invests $26.5M to Expand Largo Facility
Collins Aerospace invests $26.5 million to expand its Largo, Florida facility, creating 100+ jobs and boosting FAA radar production by 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from RTX.
Collins Aerospace, a business unit of aerospace and defense giant RTX, has announced a $26.5 million investment to expand its manufacturing facility in Largo, Florida. The strategic capital injection is designed to accelerate the manufacturing of commercial aviation radars and multi-domain security solutions tailored for defense customers.
According to the official company press release, the expansion project will generate over 100 new highly skilled jobs. These positions will span various disciplines, including engineering and factory operations, further bolstering the local high-tech workforce.
We understand that the investments comes at a critical time for both commercial aviation and military defense sectors, which are increasingly reliant on advanced, interoperable surveillance systems.
Boosting Radar Production and Security Solutions
The $26.5 million investment will primarily fund the development of a new, state-of-the-art Radar-Systems production area within the existing Largo footprint. According to the company, this new section of the facility is targeted to become fully operational by late 2026.
A key focus of the expanded facility will be manufacturing equipment for the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Radar System Replacement Program. Specifically, the Largo site will produce the Condor Mk3 cooperative surveillance radar and the ASR-XM non-cooperative radar system, both of which are critical for modernizing national airspace infrastructure.
“As global airspace becomes more congested and contested, customers need secure, interoperable systems for seamless coordination. This expansion strengthens our ability to deliver critical capabilities that keep airline passengers safe and military operators mission-ready, faster.”
In the company press release, Nate Boelkins, president of Avionics at Collins Aerospace, highlighted the dual-use nature of the technology, emphasizing its importance for both commercial passenger safety and military mission readiness.
Economic Impact and RTX’s Footprint in Florida
The Largo facility expansion represents a continued commitment by RTX to the state of Florida. The aerospace conglomerate has maintained a significant operational presence in the state for more than four decades. Currently, RTX employs more than 7,000 people across eight major locations throughout Florida.
The local economic impact extends beyond the immediate creation of over 100 engineering and factory jobs. Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly stated in the release that the expansion strengthens Florida’s position as a hub for aviation manufacturing and national security initiatives.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that this $26.5 million investment aligns with broader aerospace industry trends focused on modernizing aging air traffic control infrastructure and enhancing multi-domain defense capabilities. RTX, which reported 2025 sales exceeding $88 billion and employs over 180,000 people globally, is strategically allocating capital to facilities that directly support high-priority government Contracts, such as the FAA’s radar replacement efforts. By expanding domestic manufacturing capacity in Florida, Collins Aerospace is positioning itself to meet the growing demand for advanced, secure surveillance technologies without relying heavily on outsourced production.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total investment by Collins Aerospace in the Largo facility?
Collins Aerospace is investing $26.5 million to expand its Largo, Florida manufacturing site.
When will the new radar production area be operational?
According to the official press release, the new radar production area is expected to become fully operational by late 2026.
How many jobs will the expansion create?
The project is projected to create over 100 new highly skilled jobs, primarily in engineering and factory operations disciplines.
What specific systems will be produced at the expanded facility?
The facility will produce commercial aviation radars and defense security solutions, including the Condor Mk3 cooperative surveillance radar and the ASR-XM non-cooperative radar system for the FAA’s Radar System Replacement Program.
Sources
Photo Credit: RTX
MRO & Manufacturing
Satair Finalizes Acquisition of Unical Aviation and ecube
Satair completes acquisition of Unical Aviation and ecube, expanding its global Used Serviceable Material and aircraft lifecycle solutions.
This article is based on an official press release from Satair.
Satair, an Airbus company, has officially finalized its Acquisitions of Unical Aviation Inc. and its subsidiary, ecube. Announced in a company press release on May 11, 2026, the milestone merges Unical’s extensive parts inventory and ecube’s disassembly expertise with Satair’s existing operations.
The integration forms a massive end-to-end global provider of Used Serviceable Material (USM) and aircraft lifecycle solutions. According to industry data, the combined Unical and ecube entities bring seven operational sites across North America and Europe, a 2024 combined revenue of $298 million, and a workforce of 413 employees into the Airbus subsidiary’s portfolio.
This strategic move highlights a broader aviation industry shift toward the circular economy, as Airlines and maintenance providers increasingly rely on USM to navigate supply chain bottlenecks, reduce costs, and meet Sustainability targets.
Industrializing the Aircraft Lifecycle
The acquisition significantly expands Satair’s industrial footprint. By integrating Unical and ecube’s major operational sites in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Spain, Satair aims to provide a seamless, “one-stop shop” for material flow. According to the press release, this flow encompasses everything from aircraft storage and disassembly to technical repair management and global distribution.
The combined operations will now begin a coordinated integration process, focusing on aligning efforts across Satair, Unical, ecube, and VAS Aero Services to deliver a well-connected customer experience.
Leadership Restructuring
To ensure strategic alignment across its USM business units, Satair announced key leadership changes in its official statement. Sharon Green, who has served as CEO of Unical since late 2021, will now take on the dual role of CEO for both Unical and VAS Aero Services. Meanwhile, Tommy Hughes, the former CEO of VAS Aero Services, transitions to his full-time responsibilities as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of Satair. Richard Stoddart remains at the helm as CEO of Satair and Head of Airbus Material Services.
“Bringing Unical and ecube into our business isn’t just about getting bigger, it’s about leveraging the circular economy to the benefit of our customers,” stated Richard Stoddart, CEO of Satair, in the official release.
The Road to Acquisition
The path to this finalized deal, initially announced in November 2025, involves several years of strategic positioning by multiple entities. Satair made its initial major push into the USM market in July 2022 with the acquisition of VAS Aero Services.
Unical Aviation, founded in 1990, underwent its own transformation under the stewardship of private equity firm Platinum Equity, which acquired the supplier in August 2021. During this four-year period, industry reports note that Unical relocated its headquarters to Coolidge, Arizona, modernized its technology, and acquired ecube in 2024 to bring teardown capabilities in-house.
“Unical is exiting our stewardship as a stronger, more competitive platform, and we believe it is well placed to continue building momentum under Satair and Airbus,” noted Jacob Kotzubei, Co-President of Platinum Equity, according to industry research.
ecube’s Role in the Circular Economy
ecube brings specialized expertise in aircraft storage, disassembly, and transition services to the Satair portfolio. Operating out of St Athan (Wales), Castellón (Spain), and Coolidge (Arizona), the company is noted in industry reports for enabling the reuse or recycling of at least 93% of materials from every disassembled aircraft.
Market Implications and Growth
The timing of Satair’s expansion aligns with surging demand in the Used Serviceable Material sector. Industry estimates project the USM market will reach between $5.87 billion and $7.64 billion in 2025, with potential growth up to $10.86 billion by 2033.
“I’m proud of what our teams have built and confident that together we will deliver a true end-to-end lifecycle solution that improves material availability, extends asset life, and creates meaningful value for customers worldwide,” added Sharon Green in the company statement.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that airlines and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operators are increasingly turning to USM to combat material inflation and offset long lead times for new Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEMs) parts. Utilizing USM can save airlines up to 30–40% on MRO expenses, particularly for high-value components like engines and avionics. Furthermore, this acquisition heavily supports the aviation industry’s sustainability goals. By industrializing the USM lifecycle, companies can maximize the lifespan of existing assets, reduce waste, and establish responsible material practices that lower the carbon footprint of aircraft maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What companies did Satair acquire?
Satair, an Airbus company, acquired Unical Aviation Inc. and its subsidiary, ecube.
When was the acquisition finalized?
The transaction officially closed following regulatory approvals on May 11, 2026.
How does this impact the aviation supply chain?
It creates a unified global provider for Used Serviceable Material (USM), offering airlines a “one-stop shop” for aircraft storage, disassembly, and parts distribution, which helps alleviate supply chain shortages and reduce maintenance costs.
Sources
- Satair Press Release
- Industry Research Report
Photo Credit: Satair
MRO & Manufacturing
Liebherr-Aerospace Expands MRO in Shanghai with Sustainable Coating
Liebherr-Aerospace expands its Shanghai facility with a REACH-compliant coating process for aircraft heat transfer equipment, approved by CAAC, EASA, and FAA.
This article is based on an official press release from Liebherr-Aerospace.
Liebherr-Aerospace Expands MRO Footprint in China with Sustainable Coating Technology
On May 11, 2026, Liebherr-Aerospace announced a major expansion of its Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities at its Shanghai facility. According to the company’s press release, this development centers on a newly dedicated 800-square-meter area designed specifically for the testing, re-coring, and maintenance of aircraft heat transfer equipment.
A key highlight of this expansion is the introduction of a REACH-compliant Trivalent Chromium System (TCS) and Post Application Conversion Sealer (PACS) coating process. Liebherr states it is the first MRO provider to offer this environmentally friendly coating service to airline customers within China, marking a significant step forward in regional aviation sustainability.
By localizing these advanced chemical and mechanical processes, Liebherr aims to reduce turnaround times and eliminate the carbon footprint associated with shipping parts overseas. This move aligns with broader industry trends prioritizing supply chain resilience and environmental responsibility.
Technical Advancements and Environmental Compliance
The newly introduced TCS and PACS processes represent a shift away from legacy chromium-based treatments, which have historically posed severe environmental and health risks. As detailed in the company’s announcement, the TCS enhances metal corrosion resistance and paint adhesion, while the PACS seals and reinforces the protective layer to ensure long-term durability.
Crucially, this new process complies with REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals), a stringent European Union regulatory framework designed to protect human health and the environment from hazardous chemicals. Prior to its industrialization in Shanghai, the coating process underwent extensive validation at Liebherr’s Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM) site in Toulouse, France.
Regulatory Approvals
Ensuring that localized MRO services meet global safety standards is paramount for aviation suppliers. The press release confirms that the new coating process has secured critical certifications from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). Furthermore, the process holds global recognition from both the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Strategic Implications for the Asian Market
The 800-square-meter expansion allows Liebherr to perform all upcoming maintenance work for heat transfer equipment entirely in-house in Shanghai. This localization strategy directly benefits Chinese airlines operating Airbus, Boeing, and COMAC fleets by mitigating international transportation delays and reducing reliance on European or American facilities for specialized chemical treatments.
Leadership Perspective
The company views this milestone as a testament to its cross-border collaboration and its commitment to future-proofing its services for the Asian market.
“This milestone highlights the strong collaboration between our teams in China and our OEM organization. By introducing the REACH-compliant TCS/PACS coating process, we are strengthening the sustainability of our services while maintaining the highest technical standards. Ensuring compliance with evolving regulatory frameworks also prepares our customers in China for future environmental requirements.”
, Eric Thévenot, General Manager, Customer Services & MRO, Liebherr China Co., Ltd.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that Liebherr-Aerospace’s Shanghai expansion is a calculated component of a much larger, multi-year global MRO strategy designed to capture surging post-pandemic aviation demand. Industry data indicates that earlier in 2026, Liebherr successfully industrialized this exact TCS/PACS process at its MRO site in Singapore.
The concurrent expansion of facilities in Saline (Michigan, USA), Lindenberg (Germany), Guaratinguetá (Brazil), and the opening of a new service center in Dubai indicate a clear industry shift toward localized, OEM-quality maintenance. For the rapidly growing Chinese commercial aviation market, having in-country access to REACH-compliant, CAAC-approved MRO services not only streamlines daily operations but also insulates regional supply chains against global logistical disruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the TCS/PACS process?
TCS (Trivalent Chromium System) and PACS (Post Application Conversion Sealer) form an environmentally friendly, REACH-compliant coating process used to protect aircraft heat transfer equipment from corrosion, replacing highly toxic legacy chromium-based treatments.
Where is Liebherr’s new MRO expansion located?
The 800-square-meter expansion dedicated to heat transfer equipment maintenance is located at Liebherr’s existing facility in Shanghai, China.
Which regulatory bodies have approved this new process?
The new coating process has been approved by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Sources
Photo Credit: Liebherr-Aerospace
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