Turbomeca is inaugurating newly expanded facilities at Turbomeca USA in Grand Prairie, Texas,in order to 'meet the growing demand for Turbomeca engines.' The additional 67,000 square feet encompasses office space, a shipping and receiving area, warehouse, new production, and a Turbo Support Center.

Turbomeca USA tells ANN that it will double its staff, as well as its assembly and test capacity, thereby achieving the ability to produce 500 engines a year by the end of 2007. In addition to Turbomeca USA’s expansion, Turbomeca Canada expanded their facility in Mirabel, Quebec by 2,200 square feet to further respond to the growing demand and make way for additional offerings. By year end, Turbomeca Canada will have completed approximately 220 engines and by 2008/2009 they project to complete over 300 engines per year.

Russ Spray, President and CEO for Turbomeca USA, said: “Our newly expanded facilities at TMUSA and Turbomeca Canada are just part of a global expansion of resources occurring within Turbomeca to meet customer demand. At Turbomeca USA in particular, the re-engining program of the US Coast Guard HH65 fleet and the recent award of the US Army’s Light Utility Helicopter program have accelerated Turbomeca USA’s growth in manpower and assets.” “And this in turn has contributed to TM Canada’s expansion”, said Helene Seguinotte, CEO for Turbomeca Canada.

Additionally; Turbomeca has set into motion the development of a US-based manufacturing facility to produce parts specifically for the LUH mission and to further contribute to the increase of commercial and military support needs. It is envisioned that the new manufacturing facility will rival the dimensions and staffing of Turbomeca USA and will be fully operational by 2009.

FMI: www.turbomeca.com, www.safran-group.com