A reliable partner for aeronautical programmes

A real know-how

Companies in the region design and manufacture critical components, subassemblies and systems for aircraft and helicopters, working under strict quality and certification requirements.

The aeronautics ecosystem brings together internationally recognised industrial champions and a dense fabric of specialised SMEs.

Main activities :

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Aerostructures and mechanical assemblies for aircraft and helicopters

metallic and composite structures, fuselage and wing components, nacelles and precision assemblies.

On board equipment and systems

actuation systems, power electronics, sensors, avionics subsystems and other equipment integrated into major aircraft platforms.

Engine and propulsion components

compressor and turbine components and associated subsystems, supported by advanced surface treatment, inspection and test capabilities, including new investments in compressor blade manufacturing and test facilities for low carbon propulsion.

Testing, qualification, MRO and lifecycle support for components and subsystems

with test benches, non destructive testing and engineering services covering the full lifecycle of aeronautical products.

Advanced manufacturing and digitalisation

with deployment of Industry 4.0 approaches, robotics, automation, additive manufacturing and digital engineering tools.

Within this industrial base, the historical EWA network, now fully integrated into GIWAS, brings together 52 Walloon aeronautics companies and illustrates the breadth and depth of Wallonia’s aeronautical know how, from coatings and composites to simulation, testing, certification, airport operations and aerostructure integration.

Aeronautics is also closely linked to the drones and UAS ecosystem. The Walloon Drone Roadmap shows that Wallonia has actors in all parts of the drone value chain, including hardware, software, sensors, telecommunications, cyber security, certification and specialised test zones, reinforcing the region’s capabilities in advanced air vehicles and unmanned systems.

Academic and research partners are active in structural mechanics, aerodynamics, propulsion, materials, digital engineering and advanced manufacturing, often in collaboration with industry through regional and European projects.

Why invest in aeronautics in Wallonia

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Established industrial base

already integrated in major international aircraft and helicopter programmes.

Strong competences

in aerostructures, propulsion components, on board systems and testing.

Dense network of companies

including the 52 historical EWA members, representing around 5 000 direct jobs and close to 1 billion euro in turnover within GIWAS

Access to skilled human resources

and specialised training programmes.

Competitive costs

combined with high quality standards and flexibility.

Direct access to EU and NATO markets

from a central European location.

Key figures for aeronautics

52
walloon aeronautics companies
5.000
direct jobs
1 billion
turnover