Honda Aircraft Acquires ACTI to Strengthen Aerospace Supply Chain

Honda Aircraft Company Solidifies Supply Chain with Acquisition of ACTI

In a significant move for the aerospace industry, Honda Aircraft Company has acquired Angeles Composite Technologies Inc. (ACTI), a key manufacturer of composite aerospace components. This strategic acquisitions, effective at midnight on October 31, 2025, brings a critical supplier under the direct ownership of the Greensboro, North Carolina-based aircraft manufacturer. The deal establishes a new, wholly-owned subsidiary named Port Angeles Composites, signaling a long-term commitment to the Port Angeles, Washington community and cementing a vital piece of the HondaJet supply chain. This development is not just a corporate transaction; it represents a major investment in local manufacturing and job creation on the Olympic Peninsula.

The acquisition comes at a time of growth and innovation for Honda Aircraft Company. The company recently celebrated the tenth anniversary of the first HondaJet entering service, with a global fleet of over 260 aircraft. Furthermore, development of the new, larger HondaJet Echelon is well underway, and the company has been making strides in sustainable aviation, recently completing a test flight using a 100% SAF blend. By bringing ACTI into its fold, Honda secures the production of essential composite structures needed for its current and future aircraft, ensuring stability and control over its manufacturing processes. The move is poised to have a substantial positive impact on the Port Angeles economy, promising both job retention and significant future growth.

A New Chapter for a Port Angeles Manufacturer

Founded in 1996, Angeles Composite Technologies Inc. has established itself as a world-class supplier of advanced structural composite assemblies for both commercial and military aerospace markets. Operating from a 75,000-square-foot facility, ACTI has a long history of supplying major industry players, including Boeing, Bombardier, and Lockheed Martin. The company’s expertise in composite manufacturing is critical in an industry that demands lightweight, high-strength materials for modern aircraft. This acquisition marks the latest chapter in ACTI’s history, which includes a 2015 majority-interest purchase by British firm Shimtech Industries Ltd. from Koniag Inc., an Alaska Native corporation.

Under the new ownership, the company will operate as Port Angeles Composites and will focus specifically on producing components for the HondaJet family of aircraft. A key aspect of the transition is the commitment to continuity. Honda Aircraft Company has stated that all current ACTI employees are expected to retain their employment with the new entity. Furthermore, Port Angeles Composites plans to establish new supply agreements with ACTI’s existing customers, ensuring that service to other aerospace giants continues without interruption. This focus on a smooth transition underscores the value Honda places on the existing workforce and customer relationships built by ACTI over the years.

The acquisition is not just about maintaining the status quo; it is about future growth. ACTI had recently secured all necessary approvals to add an additional 140,000 square feet of workspace to its campus, more than doubling its physical footprint. Port Commission President Steve Burke confirmed that the new owners are likely to proceed with this significant expansion. This planned growth is a strong indicator of Honda’s long-term vision for the Port Angeles facility, positioning it as a central hub for its composite manufacturing needs as it continues to develop new aircraft like the HondaJet Echelon.

“We are really excited for the Port of Port Angeles to be able to partner with an international manufacturing company to bring jobs, and well-paying jobs to our community.”, Steve Burke, Port Commission President

Economic Impact and Community Benefits

The arrival of a global brand like Honda in Port Angeles is a significant economic event for the region. The most immediate and tangible benefit is the promise of job creation. While official numbers have not been released, local officials are optimistic. Port Commission President Steve Burke suggested the number of new jobs could be “well over a hundred,” drawing a parallel to the number of jobs lost when the local McKinley Mill closed. These are expected to be well-paying, skilled manufacturing positions that will provide a substantial boost to the local economy and offer valuable career opportunities for residents.

The investment by Honda Aircraft Company extends beyond direct employment. The establishment of Port Angeles Composites signifies a major industrial partnerships for the Port of Port Angeles. This can attract further investment and development in the region, solidifying its reputation as a hub for aerospace manufacturing. The expansion of the facility will involve construction and support services, creating a ripple effect of economic activity. For a community on the Olympic Peninsula, the presence of a stable, growing employer tied to an innovative international company provides a level of economic security and prestige.

This move aligns with Honda Aircraft Company’s broader strategy of strengthening its production capabilities. As the company expands its aircraft lineup and pushes the boundaries of aviation technology, having direct control over the manufacturing of critical components is a logical and powerful strategic step. The acquisition of ACTI ensures that the supply of high-quality composite parts can keep pace with Honda’s production demands and innovation pipeline, from the current HondaJet models to the upcoming Echelon. The community of Port Angeles now finds itself directly linked to the future of a leading name in private aviation.

Conclusion: A Strategic Partnership for Future Flight

The acquisition of ACTI by Honda Aircraft Company is a multifaceted strategic decision that benefits both the corporation and the local community of Port Angeles. For Honda, it secures a vital part of its supply chain, providing control over the production of advanced composite materials essential for its aircraft. This vertical integration is crucial as the company continues to innovate and expand its fleet. It mitigates risks associated with third-party suppliers and ensures that production can scale to meet the demands of new projects like the HondaJet Echelon.

For Port Angeles, the establishment of Port Angeles Composites under Honda’s ownership is a landmark economic development. It not only preserves existing manufacturing jobs but promises the creation of more than a hundred new, high-quality positions. The planned expansion of the facility signals a long-term commitment and a significant investment in the community’s future. This partnership between a global aerospace leader and a dedicated local workforce is set to elevate the region’s profile in the aerospace industry and provide a stable foundation for economic growth for years to come.

FAQ

Question: Who acquired Angeles Composite Technologies Inc. (ACTI)?
Answer: Honda Aircraft Company, through a wholly-owned subsidiary named Port Angeles Composites, acquired ACTI.

Question: What will the newly formed company, Port Angeles Composites, manufacture?
Answer: The company will continue manufacturing aerospace products with a specific focus on components for the HondaJet aircraft.

Question: Will the current employees of ACTI lose their jobs?
Answer: No, all current ACTI employees are expected to continue their employment with the new company, Port Angeles Composites.

Question: Is the company expected to create new jobs in Port Angeles?
Answer: Yes, while an exact number is not confirmed, it is anticipated that the acquisition will bring a significant number of new jobs, potentially “well over a hundred,” to the community.

Sources: myclallamcounty.com