Querétaro: An Emerging Aerospace Hub, Driving Innovation and Growth

Querétaro: An Emerging Aerospace Hub, Driving Innovation and Growth

The aerospace industry in Mexico began developing in the 1960s, but it wasn’t until the year 2000 that it experienced accelerated growth, driven by factors such as the country’s strategic geographical location, the signing of trade agreements (such as the USMCA), and the availability of skilled labor at competitive costs. Today, Mexico has established itself as the largest exporter of aerospace components in Latin America and one of the most important globally.

In Mexico, the aerospace industry manufactures various products including wire harnesses, aircraft doors, aircraft engines, helicopter parts, fuselages, stabilizers, landing gear, as well as interiors such as seats, windows, luggage compartments, toilets, and cafeterias. (Industrial, 2024)

How has the aerospace cluster in Querétaro evolved? It has been crucial in attracting investment and fostering collaboration among businesses, educational institutions, and government entities. Leading companies such as Bombardier, Safran, Airbus, and General Electric have established operations in the region, contributing to the development of a robust local supply chain.

Regarding infrastructure and training, the Querétaro Intercontinental Airport, along with the specialized aerospace industrial park, provides a solid logistical and operational foundation. Additionally, the Aeronautical University of Querétaro (UNAQ) and other technical training centers have played a crucial role in developing a specialized workforce, which is a key resource for the industry. Furthermore, in September, the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Laboratory will be inaugurated, installed by the company at the Aeronautical University of Querétaro (UNAQ) and it will be unique worldwide; this opening will also mark the company’s 25th anniversary.

Querétaro has distinguished itself nationally through its specialization and development in the aerospace sector. This growth has been facilitated by a combination of factors, including investment in infrastructure, the creation of industrial clusters, and collaboration between the public, private, and academic sectors.
Foreign direct investments (FDI) in Querétaro have been significant, with over 50 aerospace companies operating in the region and creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs. This growth has not only impacted the local economy but has also enhanced Mexico’s profile as an investment destination in the aerospace sector.

Ranking 6th during this period in terms of foreign direct investment (FDI) in the aerospace sector, which amounted to $292.8 million between 2006 and the first quarter of 2024, reported the Secretariat of Economy (SE). Baja California leads the list with 24.4% of the FDI in the sector, followed by Chihuahua with 19.2%, Coahuila with 13.3%, Zacatecas with 8.4%, Nuevo León with 7.9%, and Querétaro.

Recently, Diehl Aviation, a German manufacturer of aircraft parts, began constructing a new plant in Mexico. The new facility will start production in 2025, and it is expected to employ approximately 500 people in the medium term. The first product to be manufactured will be extra-large overhead bins for the Airbus A220, which is assembled in Quebec, Canada, and Alabama, USA.

The complex is located in an industrial park in the central city of Querétaro and will initially feature over 8,200 square meters of production and office space, which may be expanded by an additional 4,000 to 6,000 square meters, according to the company’s statement. (Expansion, n.d.)

The future of the aerospace industry in Querétaro and Mexico is promising, with significant potential for further growth and development. Projections indicate that global demand for aircraft and aerospace-related services will continue to rise, presenting an opportunity for Mexico to strengthen its position as a leader in the sector.

Future strategies should focus on innovation, continuous improvement of workforce training, and sustainability. With a focus on these aspects, Querétaro and Mexico are well-positioned to seize emerging opportunities in the global aerospace market