Airbus Expands U.S. A320 Production
Airbus is set to increase its A320 series narrowbody jet production in the United States with the opening of a second final assembly line (FAL) in Mobile, Alabama. This development coincides with the tenth anniversary of Airbus launching its stateside assembly operations.
Significant Investment in Mobile Facility
The Mobile plant, which will become the fourth largest commercial aircraft assembly line globally, represents a $1 billion investment by Airbus. The facility’s production capacity also includes the A220 regional jet.
Commitment to U.S. Workforce
Over the past decade, Airbus has expanded its operations at the Brookley Aeroplex from a workforce of 300 to 2,000 employees and expanded the site from 116 acres to 190 acres. The location is strategically close to the world’s largest aviation training facility and the cradle of U.S. naval aviation in Pensacola, Florida.
Transportation and Infrastructure
The Mobile facility is equipped with extensive rail, road, and water transportation infrastructure, along with two runways. The Mobile Airport Authority has been pivotal in supporting Airbus since its inception, underpinning the city’s industrial growth.
Airbus’s Regional Impact
Daryl Taylor, Senior Vice President of U.S. Commercial Aircraft Operations at Airbus, highlighted, “Our team has created thousands of jobs and fostered significant economic growth,” emphasizing the increasing importance of the Mobile site.
Historical and Strategic Significance
Brookley Aeroplex occupies a central location in the Gulf Coast aerospace cluster between Mississippi and the Florida Panhandle. Originally the Brookley Air Base, its transition to the city in 1969 facilitated the growth of a vibrant aerospace industry hub.
Airbus Operations in the U.S.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Stateside Suppliers | Over 40+ states |
| U.S.-based Airbus Employees | 2,000+ |
| American Jobs Supported by Airbus Supply Chain | 275,000+ |
| Annual U.S. Spending | $15 billion+ |
| Aircraft Produced | A320 and A220 |
Role of Mobile Aeroplex
Designated as Mobile Downtown Airport, the Aeroplex serves flight-testing and specialized operations, while playing a historical role in aviation, having hosted figures like Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart.
Airbus Versus Boeing
In August 2025, Airbus delivered 61 aircraft, totaling 434 deliveries for the year, with a target of 820 by year-end. In contrast, Boeing reported 385 deliveries due to challenges with the 737 MAX.
Market Dynamics
The A320neo’s sales success contrasts with the Boeing 737’s certification delays, potentially shifting market dynamics in favor of Airbus. The investment in Mobile aligns with geopolitical contexts, offering Airbus a strengthened position in the U.S. aviation market.
