Mexico City, April 25, 2025 – Leading representatives of the Mexican aeronautical industry announced the winners of the national competition to accelerate the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) at the FAMEX Aerospace Fair. For the 2025 edition, the three finalists were:
The team from the Yucatán Scientific Research Center in Mérida proposed producing SAF from nejayote (a residue from the corn nixtamalization process) and henequen waste using the Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) route. This experimental process includes the conversion of bioethanol into SAF.
The team from the National Polytechnic Institute in Mexico City proposed producing SAF from Agave angustifolia. This project demonstrated that Mexico has sufficient land available to sustain production.
The CIATEC team in Guanajuato proposed the development of an alternative technology for the production of SAFs called furans to jet (FTJ), based on the conversion of agricultural waste (corn stubble, wheat straw, sorghum bagasse, and sugarcane) into bioturbosine.
The initiative, launched in January 2024, included the participation of Aeroméxico, Airports and Auxiliary Services (ASA), the National Chamber of Air Transport (CANAERO), the Mexican Council for Aerospace Education (COMEA), the Mexican Federation of the Aerospace Industry (FEMIA), the Mexico Aerospace Fair (FAMEX), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the International Coalition for Sustainable Aviation (ICSA), Viva, and Volaris.
Ciudad de México, 25 de abril de 2025 – Los principales representantes de la industria aeronáutica en México anunciaron los ganadores del concurso nacional para acelerar el desarrollo de Combustibles Sostenibles de Aviación (SAF, por sus siglas en inglés) en la Feria Aeroespacial FAMEX. Para la...
In my life experience I have realized aviation is a business,
In Latin America there are several models of aviation industrial development.
The most successful is Brazil, followed by Mexico and Colombia and later Argentina and Chile.
Brazil combines local talent and industry with well developed international alliances.
Embraer exemplifies a local company that has connections to aircraft giants from other nations to lead aircraft programs.
In Mexico Frisa, MIMSA or AT engine are the most advanced companies because they have become suppliers to important aerospace programs from Space X to Safran and GE jet engines.
Colombia has an important light aviation industry, with more than 700 light aircraft built.
Argentina had many important programs but it has not been able to profit economically with a really advanced aviation industry.
Chile has a small aircraft industry.
The current Mexican model is become suppliers of important aircraft giants.
"We've been in the aerospace industry for approximately 8-9 years, during which time we've developed this niche and established business relationships with several major clients and large OEMs, supplying production parts," López highlights. Thanks to these efforts, MIMSA has been approved as a Tier 1 aerospace supplier for renowned companies such as Boeing Airplanes, Safran, GE Aerospace, and Honeywell.
MIMSA proyecta una perspectiva de crecimiento alentadora, fundamentada en las oportunidades identificadas para la industria mexicana, con especial énfasis en el sector aeroespacial.
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PE-210A Specifications:
Range: 1,600 km | Max. Speed: 210 knots | Endurance: 4–5 h | Payload: 350 kg | Cockpit: Tandem with 300° vertical and 240° horizontal vision | Materials: Aluminum and composites | Wing: Canard + swept main | Engine: 300 HP turbojet with ducted propeller | Avionics: Garmin G3X (customizable) Its modern and economical design makes it a strategic option for armed forces and civilian operators.
Pegasus P-400T: An advanced and versatile platform, still under development, it is designed for primary training and tactical missions such as reconnaissance, high-speed general aviation, and light attack.
P-400T Specifications: Range: 1,800 km | Max. Speed: 240 knots | Autonomy: 4–5 h- Resistance: up to 7G- Propulsion: Ducted propeller + auxiliary turbine- Structure: Tandem with panoramic vision- Reinforced retractable landing gear- Avionics: Garmin G1000 (customizable)
En el marco de la Feria Aeroespacial Mexicana-2025 (FAMEX), la empresa Oaxaca Aerospace presentó oficialmente sus aeronaves Pegasus PE-210A y Pegasus P-400T, dos modelos de
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The Pegasus from Oaxaca aerospace repeats a model that could or could not work, because they designed an aircraft that costs USD $3 million dollars that competes with established aircraft like the Beechcraft Texan II that cost USD $10 million dollars but lacks the prestige and economic logistics developed to grow in the third world aircraft trainer market. The Halcon 2 from Horizontec is much cheaper to operate and purchase only USD $179,000 dollars per aircraft, but since it is targeted for aviation schools and private owners it is hard to see its future.
The Mexican company Horizontec received the "Made in Mexico" certification for assembling a 100 percent Mexican aircraft using advanced technology and its own development. Giovanni Angelucci, the company's CEO, received this certification at the 2025 Mexican Aerospace Fair (FAMEX).
Horizontec is a Mexican company located in Celaya, Guanajuato, dedicated to designing, developing, and manufacturing aircraft using cutting-edge technology and advanced composite materials. They are the creators of the first aircraft, the Halcón 2.
Since 2014, the company has developed this technological advancement in aviation with the Halcón 1. It was in February 2024 that Horizontec received the production certificate from the Federal Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC) to market the Halcón 2.
"I am going to present this certificate, which you have earned with great pride. Mexico has not developed its own aircraft for many years. This aircraft will be licensed very soon. You will see it on the market," commented Marcelo Ebrard, Mexico's Secretary of Economy.
Halcón 1
The flight for a dream began with the manufacture of the Halcón 1 (H1), a wooden aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight of 600 kilograms and a speed of 222 km/h. The Falcon I made its first flight on September 30, 2017.
Falcon 2
A two-seat light sport aircraft (LSA), constructed of composite materials and powered by a 141 HP Rotax 915is engine. A versatile, safe, and easy-to-fly aircraft, it is designed for flight schools (training future Mexican pilots), aerial surveillance, and recreational flights.
Horizontec products feature cutting-edge engineering, and are therefore committed to meeting the highest international design and quality standards, as well as ensuring state-of-the-art design and manufacturing, using ASTM standards.
La empresa mexicana Horizontec recibió el certificado “Hecho en México” por ensamblar una aeronave 100 por ciento mexicana y con alta tecnología y desarrollo propio.
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In general terms Mexico has not the success of Colombia in light aviation yet, and it is far far away from Brazil`s Tucano or Preator aircraft.
However Mexico is well established in the area of suppliers building aircraft parts for big companies and landing investment in the country..
There is now a assembly and manufacture of parts of complete Leap engines by Safran in Queretaro
Safran’s recently announced $75 million investment in a new factory in Mexico is part of the French engine maker’s concerted response to meeting the exceptionally high levels of demand for the Leap engines it produces through its CFM International joint venture with GE Aviation. By the end of 2017, the new plant at Queretaro, 125 miles north of Mexico City, will start producing 3-D woven composite fan blades for the Leap turbofans. By 2021, the facility, which is being built in partnership with U.S. company Albany International, is expected to reach an annual output rate of more than 20,000 blades.
Safran is investing around $75 million in a new factory at Queretaro.
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“With this plant, Mexico will position itself among the few countries capable of covering the entire engine lifecycle — from manufacturing parts and modules to final assembly, repair, maintenance and engine testing,” says Jean-Paul Alary, CEO of Safran Aircraft Engines. “Since opening our plant in Querétaro, we have developed operational excellence in production and maintenance here, contributing to providing our customers with the highest standards of quality.”
Mexico ranks fifth in terms of foreign direct investment (FDI) in the aerospace sector and the 12th largest exporter of components worldwide, according to the Mexican Federation of the Aerospace Industry (FEMIA).
With a market currently valued at $11.2 billion, it is expected to reach $22.7 billion by 2029, driven by annual growth of more than 15%. At the end of the first half of 2024, 386 aerospace companies operated in 19 states, with 370 specialized plants that generate more than 50,000 direct jobs and 190,000 indirect jobs, consolidating this industry as a pillar of Mexico's economic and technological development.
In this context, the Mexico Aerospace Fair (FAMEX) 2025 opened its doors from April 23 to 26 at Military Air Base No. 1 in Santa Lucía, State of Mexico. This event, considered the most important of its kind in Latin America, brought together 337 companies, representatives from 48 countries, and 73 aircraft on display, including iconic models such as the United States Air Force F-35 and the Spanish Air Force Airbus A400M. In addition, 20 partner air forces, 12 national and international universities, and diplomats from 40 nations participated.
A strategic platform for the aerospace sector
As part of Plan Mexico, FAMEX seeks to position the country as a global leader in manufacturing, technological innovation, and sustainability in the aerospace sector. The director of the Fair Committee, Disraeli Gómez Herrera, emphasized that this comprehensive effort not only promotes trade and foreign investment but also fosters the creation of highly skilled jobs. During the three-day event, conferences and business meetings will be held to strengthen international cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence, sustainability in aviation, and autonomous systems, including drones.
Brazil, as the guest of honor, and Querétaro, a leading state in the Mexican aerospace industry, have a prominent presence at this edition. Additionally, the first official presentation of the Mexican Army's "Guerreros Águila" jump team will take place, complementing a program that blends technological innovation with cultural and commemorative events.
Mexico: Past, Present, and Future of Aviation
This year, the fair also celebrates the 110th anniversary of the Mexican Air Force and the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, reinforcing Mexico's role as a relevant player in the history of global aviation. Beyond the commemorative events, the event reflects the exponential growth of a sector that has taken advantage of its proximity to the United States, the development of specialized clusters, and the promotion of public policies to attract foreign investment.
The impact of FAMEX transcends its mere trade fair nature, establishing itself as a platform for economic and technological opportunities. This year, it is expected to strengthen Mexico's competitiveness in the global market and reinforce its position as a key destination for aerospace manufacturing, thanks to its high standards of quality, innovation, and sustainability.
With record participation and a comprehensive program, FAMEX 2025 demonstrates that the future of the aerospace industry is closely linked to Mexico's strategic development, positioning it as an undisputed leader in aerospace manufacturing and technology worldwide.
Con una participación récord y un programa integral, FAMEX 2025 demuestra que el futuro de la industria aeroespacial está estrechamente ligado al desarrollo estratégico de México.
The overall objective of the Thermal Air Surveillance System (SITVA) is to increase the physical security of crews and flight equipment. It was developed at the Air Force Research and Technological Development Center, in collaboration with the José Mario Molina Pasquel y Henríquez Technological Institute (Zapopan Campus)
In order to consolidate its leadership in the aerospace industry, the state of Baja California forged strategic alliances during the Mexican Aerospace Fair (FAMEX) 2025, through the Ministry of Economy and Innovation and the ProBaja platform, in collaboration with the recently created Baja California Space and Aeronautics Cluster (CEA-BC).
It is noteworthy that the state has 94 companies in the sector, accounting for 21% of the aerospace sector in the country. It generates more than 40,000 jobs, including engineers, technicians, and operators, and has a strong supplier base made up of more than 339 companies.
One of the key moments at the fair was the meeting with the French Ambassador to Mexico, Delphine Borione, strengthening the relationship between Baja California and the European country, a strategic player in the aeronautical sector. Meetings were also held with leaders of SAFRAN, the largest aerospace employer in Mexico, and with the Canadian company Meloche Group, which confirmed its upcoming visit to the state to evaluate investment opportunities.
Baja California also strengthened ties with Arizona through the Arizona Commerce Authority, with the goal of strengthening binational cooperation in aerospace. Additionally, the state held meetings with GE Aerospace, promoting the development of local suppliers through the ProBaja Capabilities Portfolio.
Its participation represents a strategic alliance between leading companies, suppliers, universities, and public entities, fostering an environment of collective growth, professionalization, and international visibility.
Con el fin de consolidar su liderazgo en la industria aeroespacial, el estado de Baja California concretó alianzas estratégicas durante la Feria Aeroespacial Mexicana (FAMEX)
As part of Guanajuato Governor Libia Dennise García Muñoz Ledo's working tour in Houston, the Secretary of Economy, Claudia Cristina Villaseñor Aguilar, accompanied her to a meeting with María Elena Orantes, representative of the Mexican Consulate in Houston, and businessmen from different industries, to strengthen international ties and promote Guanajuato's competitive advantages.
This collaboration seeks to strengthen commercial ties and consolidate bilateral business in key sectors such as aerospace, energy, tourism and automotive.
Likewise, in a meeting with the Official Mexican Business Chamber (COME), the Governor invited businessmen and women to invest in Guanajuato, highlighting its economic strength, its training and education ecosystem, and the rule of law that provides certainty to companies that choose to establish themselves in the state.
As part of the agenda, the Secretary of Economy, Claudia Cristina Villaseñor Aguilar, visited, on behalf of Governor Libia Dennise, the Houston Spaceport, an aerospace innovation center located at Ellington Airport, which houses global leaders such as Axiom Space, Intuitive Machines and Collins Aerospace.
During the meeting, a collaboration proposal was presented focused on the development of specialized human capital, with the vision of training young people from Guanajuato in key skills to strengthen their employability in the aerospace industry.
In addition, it was agreed to explore collaboration mechanisms with companies located at the Spaceport to identify specialized supply opportunities, seeking to integrate Guanajuato companies into global supply chains.
Finally, companies in the aerospace sector will be able to learn first-hand about the industrial infrastructure, innovation centers, technology parks and human talent that position Guanajuato as a strategic destination for investment and global technological development.
With these actions, the Government of the People, through the Ministry of Economy, reaffirms its commitment to continue positioning the state as a benchmark in innovation, advanced manufacturing and foreign investment, generating quality jobs and expanding development opportunities for the people of Guanajuato.
As part of Guanajuato Governor Libia Dennise García Muñoz Ledo's working tour in Houston, the Secretary of Economy, Claudia Cristina
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The state of California, USA, if it were a country, would have the fourth largest economy in the world - according to recent data added to this article. Baja California has been part of the aerospace economic muscle of the West Coast of the United States since 1966. As natural allies in the aerospace industrial development of our entity, at FAMEX 2025, Military Air Base No. 1, Santa Lucía, Edomex, we signed an MOU with "Space Return, The California Space Cluster", a California Space Cluster, USA www.spacereturn.org with a radius of influence in Los Angeles and counties of Southern California, with the goal of leveraging our strengths in talent, industrial development, technological innovation, and supply for critical space missions. This ceremony was held at the stand of Eng. Manuel Langarica, CEO of Cableados y Plásticos (CYPSA), a leading Mexican SME supplier of cables and harnesses - a member of the Baja California Aerospace Cluster. We appreciate the presence of Dr. Theresa Padilla and Diego Padilla, President and CEO, respectively, for this significant ceremony marking a milestone in the binational collaboration of our members in the space race. We also thank Gabriele Pérez, CEO of Able Aerospace; Elfido Ramos, Supply Chain Manager SSNA, at Safran Group Mexico; Carlos Duarte, expert in Human Capital Development in the Space Field; and Christian Sánchez, President of the Commission for Women in the Aerospace Industry, who served as Witnesses of Honor at this significant meeting, along with members of the Baja Aerospace Delegation.
Visit us at www.bajaaerospace.org
Howard Hughes established the first aerospace company in the city, Hughes Aircraft, more than 40 years ago.
A solid location for aerospace investments. It seeks its experienced workforce, proximity to the supply chain, and first-class infrastructure.
Gulfstream (Savannah, GA) assembles 70% of its exclusive jets in Mexicali.
Honeywell (Morristown, NJ) designs and tests electrical systems for next-generation aircraft.
United Technologies Aerospace Systems (Chula Vista, CA) manufactures nacelle system components for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
Growing Mexican market with European, American, and Canadian companies established throughout the country seeking qualified suppliers in the region.
Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation has announced a significant US $370 million investment to build a new 540,000-square-foot plant in Mexicali, Baja California, creating 1,500 specialized jobs. This new plant will boost Gulfstream's operations in the region, further solidifying Baja California's position as the heart of Mexico's aerospace industry. With this expansion, Gulfstream will have over 5,000 employees in the region, continuing to contribute to its robust aviation and aerospace sector. Visit www.MexicoNewsDaily.com for more.
Embraer and Zodiac to Operate Plant in Mexico
Embraer has reached an agreement with Zodiac Aerospace to create a partnership that will manufacture cabin components for the Embraer 170/190 family of jets, the Brazilian company announced
Embraer cerró un acuerdo con Zodiac Aerospace para crear una sociedad que fabricará componentes para la cabina de la familia de jets Embraer 170/190, informó la empresa brasileña.
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The Embraer factory in Chihuahua, not Mexico, operates with more than 1,000 workers to produce internal coatings for the Brazilian company's aircraft, said Francisco Gomes, general director of Embraer.
Globally, Embraer has 19,000 employees and one fifth of its engineers.
Gomes reported that there are more than 100 Embraer aircraft flying in Mexico. Of course, more than 50 executive aircraft, three belonging to the Mexican Air Force and the rest are commercial aircraft.
“Embraer has a portfolio of products that is tailored to develop more businesses and collaboration with Mexico,” said Gomes about participating in the Mexico-Brazil Business Forum in Mexico City on the second fair.
A subsidiary of this company, EZ Air Interior Limited, operates the Embraer factory in Chihuahua. It produces interior parts for its Commercial Aviation segment. The factory started production and shipping parts to Brazil in 2013. It reached its total production capacity in January 2015.
Embraer is positioned as the world's leading manufacturer of 150-seat aircraft. She finds one of her main opportunities in the direct substitution of her products. In particular, this is the case in regions where their aircraft are only visible, such as North America and Europe.
Also, specific markets, such as India, Brazil, Turkey and Saudi Arabia, present great potential. This is due to the increasing development of regional aviation.
On the other hand, the aircraft segment with less than 150 seats is experiencing global growth. Or reason? There is a need to adjust the size of the airlines' air carriers.
In 2023, the company will have a receipt of US$ 5.3 billion, two 93.5% denominated in US dollars.
A look at why the state of Chihuahua in Mexico is using its highly skilled workforce and location to assert itself as a major global aerospace industry location
Quantum Robotics unveils its Mexican-made Mars rover at FAMEX 2025
The Quantum Robotics Team Presents Its Rover for Mars Exploration at FAMEX 2025Quantum Robotics is a Mexican team dedicated to building space rovers. They have participated in international competitions such as the University Rover Challenge, where the limits of engineering are tested. Artificial intelligence plays a key role in space robotics, including autonomous rovers for space exploration. Quantum Robotics is at the forefront of this technology, integrating AI into its designs.
On the third day of activities at the Mexico 2025 Aerospace Fair (FAMEX), Marcelo Ebrard, head of the Ministry of Economy (SE), presented the "Made in Mexico" certification to Horizontec, the developer of the Halcón 2 aircraft."It is very significant to be able to present the Made in Mexico certification for this aircraft today. This aircraft is 100 percent Mexican. I want to emphasize that," the secretary stated.
The Camazot 220 radar is a 3D air surveillance radar system under development in Mexico, with a range of 220 km. This project seeks to strengthen the Command and Control Center of the Mexican Armed Forces with domestically designed and built technology. Development is being led by the C.I.D.T.F.A. (Center for the Defense of the Caribbean), under the leadership of CIDEFAM. The initiative underscores the importance of technological autonomy in the field of defense
Zodiac Aerospace has worked in the aeronautics business for over 100 years but the group took until 2006 to establish operations in Mexico. In only 10 years, Zodiac’s operations in the state of Chihuahua have climbed from one to five plants and infrastructure now covers 55,000m2. In the same period, Zodiac has become embedded in the heart of Chihuahua’s aerospace manufacturing.
Chihuahua’s site began its operations producing different evacuation systems such as slides. Eventually, the facilities expanded and other group activities were incorporated. In 2015, the corporation Zodiac Aerospace Equipo de Mexico was created and as of today it runs nine different business units.
The Evacuation Systems’ unit comprises the production of several inflatable safety products such as evacuation slides, life rafts, life vests and flotation equipment for helicopters. Zodiac’s Interconnect business unit is in charge of designing and manufacturing components used for protecting and managing wires, either for static or dynamic applications.
Zodiac’s water & waste aero system also has operations in the state and is responsible for manufacturing cabin systems and equipment such as toilets, airstairs and vacuum waste integration systems. Its lighting solutions target the production of technologies for deck light plates and control panels, among other components. The aero electric unit manufactures flight deck equipment and power distribution systems. The seats, seat shells and actuation system divisions can also be found in the Chihuahua site. The inflight innovations business unit focuses on generating entertainment inflight solutions through the RAVE SDU touch-screen.
Zodiac’s operations in the state are not limited to manufacturing. The company has collaborated with local universities that develop courses to suit the engineering needs of the aerospace industry. The company also carries out R&D activities in Mexico, particularly for its seats unit.
Zodiac’s facilities in Chihuahua employ nearly 3,000 people in three of the company’s most profitable business areas. The latest 4,600m2 expansion opened in August 2016 and demonstrates that Chihuahua has become a cornerstone to the group’s industrial capacity.
The Institute for the Support of Technological Development (INADET) and Safran Aerosystems have launched a collaboration to bolster human capital development in Chihuahua’s aerospace sector. This partnership includes the inauguration of the Industrial School, a specialized facility designed to train operators in the manufacturing of evacuation slides, a key component in aerospace safety.
“Each time a new project comes up, we say yes because we know we have an ecosystem that supports us: the government, the industry, and academia,” says Ulises Fernández, Director, Ministry of Innovation and Economic Development (SIDE).
The Industrial School will serve as a training ground where workers will acquire the skills needed to meet the high safety and quality standards required in the aerospace industry. "Such initiatives solidify Chihuahua’s position as a leader in the aerospace industry," says Jorge Acosta, General Manager, Safran.
The training was conducted in collaboration with the High Technology Training Center (CENALTEC), which is part of the initiative to provide specialized instruction for high-demand roles in aerospace manufacturing.
Since its inception, INADET has trained over 270,000 individuals. Of this total, 78% have been trained in the last three years, underscoring the growing demand for specialized talent to meet the needs of the aerospace sector.
Quintus Technologies has been selected by Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, business-jet manufacturer, to provide a modern high-pressure fluid cell press. The Flexform press is destined for Gulfstream’s Mexicali, Mexico, facility, which produces wiring harnesses, sheet metal components, subassemblies, and machined parts.
The Flexform process requires only one rigid tool half; the other tool half is a flexible rubber diaphragm under uniform hydrostatic pressure. This design approach generates significant tool cost savings and eliminates several forming operations, intermediate heat treatments, and operator dependencies.
“The efficiency and short cycle time of our state-of-the-art fluid cell presses make them a real asset in the aircraft manufacturing environment, where surging demand and an emphasis on just-in-time production are key considerations,” commented Jan Söderström, CEO of Quintus.
The 17,000t press-force Quintus fluid cell press applies a forming pressure of 11,600 psi (800 bar) over a sizeable forming area of 700 x 1800mm. Its installation will allow Gulfstream to redirect component production from an ABB press (the former brand name of Quintus).
Ed Williams, Quintus general manager–Americas, said: “Our modern, high-pressure presses can be expected to deliver outstanding technical performance. Quintus is committed to being a valuable partner providing high-level process.”
“We have a long and strong business relationship with Gulfstream and are pleased to see it continue with this installation,” Söderström added. “Gulfstream’s investment in an additional Quintus press tells us that our products and services are appreciated. We continuously work hard to improve our technology and our performance, in order to maximize value to our customers.”
PARIS – Within the framework of the Paris Air Show, the government of Baja California stood out as the entity with the largest number of aerospace manufacturing companies in Mexico, with the presence of brands such as Honeywell, Safran, Collins Aerospace, Gulfstream, Lockheed Martin, others
Currently, the aerospace industry in the state is made up of more than 110 companies. In 2017, the entity generated US$2 billion in exports and offered more than 35,000 direct jobs, according to Tomás Sibaja, president of the Aerospace Cluster in Baja California.
During a meeting between the ambassador of Mexico in France, Juan Manuel Gómez Robledo and the delegations of the states that attended the Parisian air show, Carlo Bonfante Olache, secretary of economic development of Baja California, stressed that the state has presence of design centers such as the Honeywell Research and Technology Center in Mexicali, the Triumph Acoustical Design Center, the Collins Aerospace and Safran Design Centers, as well as the Gulfstream Engineering Center.
"The universities and training centers have allowed us to maintain leadership in an industry that is part of the productive vocations of Baja California, so it is satisfying to contribute to that strength that the new government will surely reinforce" said Bonfante Olache.
He stressed as well that the entity offers a support network for aerospace investments, through services such as technical and professional talent training through school-company links.
Tier meetings today with the Mexicali Team at Collins Aerospace! The organization and communication within the growing facility is very impressive! Special thanks to Yoshi De La Paz for hosting me on the visit! #collinsaerospace
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Mexicali Team at Collins Aerospace
Milestone Alert! Our Advanced Structures sites in Mirabel, Riverside, Chula Vista, Foley and Mexicali are celebrating their 500th #A220#nacelle customer delivery. Nacelles are the protective casing around the engine that controls airflow and reduces drag during flight.
ð£ Milestone Alert! Our Advanced Structures sites in Mirabel, Riverside, Chula Vista, Foley and Mexicali are celebrating their 500th #A220 #nacelle customer delivery. Nacelles are the protective casing around the engine that controls airflow and reduces drag during flight. Whatâs more...
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Aerolab was contracted to design and build the Honeywell Aerospace testing facilities in Mexicali, Baja California.
The facility includes an open jet wind tunnel to support the 777X platform by Boeing, enabling the development of the engineering capacities in Honeywell Mexicali over the next two years.
The tunnel uses a 3000HP centrifugal blower capable of producing speeds up to 230 miles per hour. This Honeywell wind tunnel is the largest wind tunnel in Latin America and the only one in Mexico dedicated to the aerospace industry. The company invested US$ 15 million toward the new site.
Aerolab was contracted to design and build the Honeywell Aerospace testing facilities in Mexicali, Baja California. The facility includes an open jet wind tunnel to support the 777X platform by Boeing, enabling the development of the engineering capacities in Honeywell Mexicali over the next two...
April 24, 2025
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At the FAMEX 2025 event, Enrique Gerardo Sosa, rector of the Universidad Aeráutica in Querétaro (UNAQ), commented on the project, which highlighted technological innovation for national security.
"It's a drone with robust autonomy and communications capabilities, developed over two years in conjunction with Sedena (National Security Forces). It is already in its prototype phase, and we are about to begin flight testing,” explained the rector.
The model on display is designed to perform surveillance and defense tasks, with a command and control center capable of long-distance operations and a vertical or traditional takeoff and landing system, giving it broad operational versatility.
In addition to its focus on security, the project seeks to contribute to job creation, economic development, and the country's technological self-sufficiency. According to Sosa, “a drone of this type is very expensive on the international market, but manufactured with Mexican technology, it can cost only a fraction, allowing the government to acquire more units and thus strengthen security conditions.”
Nearly 20 students and 10 faculty members from UNAQ participated in the development, along with technical staff from Sedena (National Aeronautical Ministry) and CIDEFAM (National Aeronautical Commission for the Defense of the Nation).
The degree programs involved included engineering in aeronautical mechanical design, electronics, aircraft systems control, and aeronautical manufacturing.
“It's a project that requires many diverse capabilities due to its complex electronics, its display system, and the batteries that allow for high autonomy,” Sosa stated.
A long-term collaboration
The alliance between UNAQ and the Ministry of Aerospace and Space Administration (Sedena) is not new. The Querétaro university has worked with the Ministry for more than a decade, consolidating a relationship that has allowed it to evolve from simple projects to developments of greater technical complexity.
“Today we have more than one active project with the Ministry of Aerospace and Space Administration (Sedena) and also with the Ministry of the Navy. We can't discuss all of them due to confidentiality, but this particular drone is being exhibited at FAMEX because it represents a watershed in terms of technical and technological scope,” the rector stated.
With this presentation, UNAQ reaffirms its role as a strategic player in national aerospace development, supporting the development of talent, innovation, and technological sovereignty from Querétaro.
At a global level, there are companies recognized for designing unmanned aircraft, but Mexico is not far behind on this issue. Today, there are some companies that are dedicated to developing and designing these artifacts for the national and international market.
One of the two companies that has started to appear in the market is Unmanned Systems Technology International (USTI), which thanks to your initiative will be able to become the most representative organization in this field.
Located in the municipality of Apodaca, Nuevo León, the company is originally from Nuevo León and began its operation at the end of 2009.
Made up of a team of 10 engineers specialized in the matter, USTI develops the MX1 model, which has a wingspan of six meters from wing to wing and a length of three meters, in addition to weighing only 85 kilos.
However, these qualities of the aircraft are thanks to development by USTI, because the regional company designs the entire fuselage and wings of the drones, as a result of which the team has spent several years of study to determine which engine is suitable, which materials are the best and which technology is required to compete against them best in the world.
USTI also highlights for having developed the aircraft's braking system, as well as developing special software for the operation of the apparatus.
“The data transmission system that the aircraft has a range of up to 100 or 120 kilometers, which allows the equipment to transmit live to a base that could be placed at 30, 40 or 50 kilometers, a place where it will be receiving the same information”, explained Mauricio Ramos, President of USTI.
It is worth noting that the regional company has plans to produce 10 pieces of equipment per year, which are manufactured using aerospace-grade carbon fiber, an input certified by the US Department of State.
"Every USTI aircraft is designed and manufactured with high quality parts and inputs, equal to those that require a commercial aircraft, only for a smaller scale equipment. the cables that make up our ship are the best in the aerospace sector. Our MX1 is of great durability, very resistant, made with super hard and very durable materials light, which offers a life of more than 10 years for the equipment. In addition, the cable that uses USTI has a military certificate.
It is worth adding that USTI stands out for offering a comprehensive service, which ranges from the creation of the aircraft and the relationship that it can have with another provider depending on the use it is given to the drone. Furthermore, the company trains unmanned pilots to operate the device correctly.
For the President of the Aerospace Cluster in Nuevo León, María Teresa Galindo, having in the state a drone manufacturer like the USTI is a great pride, especially because it is made up of entrepreneurs who have visualized and understood where the aerospace market is heading.
“These are people who have decided to invest in this type of segment and in which great success is envisioned”, says Galindo.
Despite being a niche in the popularized world, drone manufacturing is shaped by innovation and creativity of engineers.
“It is a niche that has infinite applications, on the ground for the commercial area, as well as for the military area”, added the President of the Aerocluster in Nuevo León.
For Galindo, the manufacture of drones could be very relevant in the short and medium term, because it is the future of applications that will seek out private companies on the ground, as well as government dependencies.
“The manufacture of drones is not something very common in the country, and in Nuevo León we have a specialized and futuristic company like this, it is very valuable”, says Galindo.
Trust has become the key element for Bombardier's Querétaro plants to increasingly play a role in the Canadian company's global value chain. Carlos Robles, Vice President of Operations for Bombardier Mexico, stated that during 2019, Querétaro manufacturing and development took center stage in the production of the Global 7500, considered by the Canadian company "the best business jet in the industry," a third of which is produced in Querétaro. “We have consistently demonstrated that many of the assemblies produced in Mexico are done more efficiently, and I'm not just referring to cost issues, but also to the time each of these assemblies takes in terms of quality.
We are one of the best plants in the group; we are adding value to the product, making it more efficiently, correcting some quality issues that historically existed and that we have now gradually eliminated. “All of this has nothing to do with the talent of the people, but with the focus and passion they put into their work, which is what has made us a key player within the group,” Carlos Robles emphasized in an interview. Bombardier has two locations in Querétaro, one near the Intercontinental Airport and another in the municipality of El Marqués. From these plants, the company generates parts and structures that travel to the final assembly lines at its headquarters in Canada (Toronto and Montreal) and the U.S., as well as in Ireland and Morocco. “Virtually all the harnesses for all of the group's aircraft are made in Querétaro. It's obvious that Mexican manufacturing has a very important impact on every aircraft sold and released to market.” Additionally, this facility produces parts that go directly to Canadian clients such as Pratt & Whitney and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. GLOBAL 7500 “Today, our main focus, both on harnesses and structural and rear fuselage components, is entirely on continuing to minimize our learning curve [of the Global 7500], that is, we want to reduce the amount of time it takes us to make each of the components, making them faster and more efficiently. This is achieved through expertise, through repetitive and continuous action,” added the Mexican executive. Bombardier, in Querétaro, manufactures the rear third of the Global 7500, "the part where the depressurization zone ends, where the passengers and the entire rear section sit. It has all the integrated systems, and where we do participate is in making all the aircraft's harnesses," the interviewee explained. This aircraft represented a challenge in several ways for the Mexican developers, as these are components that the group is manufacturing for the first time. "We didn't bring them from elsewhere; all the development was done to be made here in Mexico. Subsequently, everything we've had to do in terms of launching the growth program, ramping, growth curve, learning, and so on, has been our own merit." In Querétaro, the aeronautical company had already experimented with the fuselage for previous versions of the Global family: the 5500 and 6500. The good results in terms of time and quality, the vice president boasted, generated the confidence to take the next step. “For years, we have demonstrated efficiency and solid performance, so much so that we have earned the confidence to develop the Global 7500.” QUERÉTARO Bombardier began operations in Querétaro in 2006. Since then, the company has invested $500 million to build its manufacturing and design plants there. Fuselages, electrical harnesses, flight controls, wings, aircraft doors, horizontal and vertical stabilizers, and rudders, among other parts, are produced here. Currently, 2,200 employees work in Querétaro, most of whom have trained at the Aeronautical University in Querétaro; however, they continue their training at Bombardier University, a program that incentivizes workers to continue their education.
EATURED The Global 7500 aircraft is the largest and longest-range commercial aircraft in the world. Within its luxurious interior are four true living spaces, a full-size galley, and a dedicated crew suite. Elevate your flight experience and discover the uninhibited freedom and tailored luxury of the Global 7500 airplane, a new class of business jet. SPEED (MACH) • Maximum Speed: 0.925 • High Speed Cruise: 0.90 • Typical Cruise Speed: 0.85 AIRFIELD PERFORMANCE • Takeoff Distance (SL, ISA, MTOW): 1,768 m • Landing Distance (SL, ISA, Typical): 768 m OPERATING ALTITUDE • Maximum Operating Altitude: 15,545 m • Initial Cruise Altitude (MTOW): 13,106 m ENGINES • GE Passport • Thrust: 18,650 lbf (83kN) • Floor classified at ISA + 20º C +INFO Start of operations: 2006 Capital: Canadian Sector: Aeronautical Products: Fuselages, electrical harnesses, flight controls, wings and aircraft doors Location: El Marqués and Colón, Qro.
THE NEW FACILITIES COVER AN AREA OF 19,510 SQUARE METERS AND INCLUDE AREAS FROM ASSEMBLY AREAS TO A TRAINING CENTER
Safran
Velvet González
Chihuahua, Chihuahua.- With a direct investment of $7 million, the Safran Group inaugurated its sixth plant this Thursday in the Supra Industrial Park in Chihuahua, which is part of the Safran Aerosystems campus.
This complex is intended to house operations for various entities such as Evacuation Systems and Seats, related to safety systems and aircraft interiors. With this opening, Safran now has 12 industrial warehouses in the Chihuahua capital, consolidating its position as one of the main employers and a pillar of the state's aerospace cluster.
The inauguration event was attended by María Eugenia Campos, Governor of the State; Jorge Acosta, general manager of the Safran Aerosystems campus in Chihuahua; Sebastien Weber, CEO of Safran Aerosystems; Alejandro Cardona, president of Safran Mexico; and Marco Bonilla, mayor of Chihuahua.
“We thank Governor Maru Campos and the state government for their continued support in fostering economic development and attracting investment. This type of collaboration, along with the commitment and quality of our teams, has been key to strengthening Safran's credibility in the region,” Acosta emphasized during the ceremony.
For his part, Weber emphasized the strategic importance of this new plant, which will expand Safran's evacuation systems production capacity and provide much-needed industrial space for other Safran companies to continue growing their operations.
According to executives, the new facilities will create up to 229 new direct jobs in the next 18 months and 64 indirect jobs in services such as security, food service, and logistics.
During his speech, Alejandro Cardona stated that "the group is pleased to consolidate the alliance between Safran and Mexico, but we are also aware of the challenges involved in meeting the milestones we have set for 2028, both in terms of job creation and production capacity."
The executive also thanked the various agencies, particularly the Ministry of Economy, and emphasized that they hope they will continue to facilitate conditions that guarantee operational security and sustained growth in the group's exports, as this is the only way to maintain the upward trajectory that the aerospace sector has achieved in Mexico.
For her part, the governor noted that Chihuahua is a reliable ally for investment in the industry, as evidenced by the fact that it has the largest Safran workforce nationwide, with 8,500 people, representing approximately 60% of the group's workforce across its various plants in the country.
He emphasized that the entity is an important link in the supply chain for the North American aerospace industry, which is essential for providing certainty in the current crisis in international trade.
Bonilla mentioned that a system of collaboration between government, businesses, and academia has been strengthened in Chihuahua, and in this sense, the capital has well-trained and committed people, which is the most valuable asset a city can have—not just labor, but also qualified minds.
After the opening ceremony and ribbon-cutting, attendees toured the facilities, which are part of the industrial continuity projects defined by Safran in Mexico and are part of its strategy to maintain sustainable operations in the country. The plant covers 19,510 square meters and includes assembly areas, a distribution center, corporate offices, conference rooms, and a training center. This includes the company's own Oxygen Systems operations, as well as those of other corporate businesses such as Safran Seats, Safran Electrical & Power, and Safran Cabin. Regarding the investment, it was explained that it is part of ongoing plans to strengthen the group's industrial presence, while the necessary conditions to sustain its long-term development continue to be evaluated.
Photo: Pablo Rodríguez
THE FAILED MEXICO TO SPAIN FLIGHT PROJECT
1934
TNCA MTW-1 BARBERAN AND COLLAR AIRCRAFT
PILOT P.A. FRANCISCO SARABIA TINOCO
Dr. MICHAEL T. WATTER
Santiago A. Flores
MMAH 2016
Following the tragic end of the Spanish pilots Captain Mariano Barberan and Lieutenant Joaquín Collar, who never arrived at Balbuena Airfield on June 20, 1933, after having departed Havana, Cuba, at 5:55 a.m. that day, in the CASA Breguet XIX Super Bidon “Cuatro Vientos” aircraft. The following year, 1934, a Mexican civilian pilot, already renowned for his expertise and experience, Francisco Sarabia Tinoco (1900-1939), who had already established an air communications network in the southeast of Mexico, including the states of Chiapas, Tabasco, Quintana Roo, and Yucatán, wanted to conduct long-distance international flights from Mexico to any point in the world. Despite the tragedy not only of the Spanish pilots but also the tragic attempt at a long-distance flight from Cerro Loco, Oaxaca, Mexico, to Buenos Aires, Argentina, by Colonel P.A. Pablo L. Sidar and Lieutenant P.A. Carlos Rovirosa on May 11, 1930, the triumph of the flight of Colonel P.A. Roberto Fierro Villalobos (1897-1985) and Captain Mecánico, resounded. Arnulfo Cortes flew from New York City to Mexico City in the Lockheed Sirius Model 8 "Anahuac" on June 24 of that same year. After this flight, Fierro, as he recounted in his memoirs what happened after his arrival at Balbuena Airfield:
The President of the Republic, as excited as I was, hugged me tightly and said, "No more nonstop flights. You won't be able to go south as planned, because we want to keep you alive, even if we don't erect statues to you." Upon receiving this order, I told the President that I had made a commitment to the people of Mexico to make a flight to Spain and that I would be sorry if I didn't keep my promise. He replied, "Don't worry, I'll explain to our nation why I ordered the suspension of such flights."
Colonel Fierro and Captain Cortez, the mechanic, had planned a long-distance international flight, the next stage of which would have been to Natal, Brazil, and from there to fly across the Atlantic to Dakar, Africa, and from there to Madrid, Spain. However, President Pascual Ortiz Rubio (1877-1963) put a stop to this plan. Two years later, Ortiz Rubio resigned from the presidency due to political problems, and Brigadier General Abelardo L. Rodríguez Luján (1889-1967) took over as interim president. He held the presidency from 1932 to 1934. He already had a history of aviation in Mexico, especially with his involvement in the aircraft factory in the border city of Tijuana, Baja California, and the purchase of the first Douglas O2C aircraft for the air force. Sarabia would be the next Mexican civilian pilot to attempt long-distance flight. The first was civilian pilot Joaquín González Pacheco (1901-1984), with German pilot Fritz Bieler Doebelle (1895-1957), a World War I veteran and former flight instructor at the military aviation school. They flew from Canada to Mexico on June 23-24, 1928, in a Stinson Detroiter SM-1A, traveling over 30 hours and 3,100 kilometers. Then, on March 2-3, 1929, Pacheco and American pilot Clifford E. McMillan flew the Stinson Detroiter "Capitán Carranza" on a goodwill flight from Mexico City to Washington, D.C., but with stops due to adverse weather conditions. Now another Mexican civilian pilot wanted to take up the challenge for Mexico's greatness. Francisco Sarabia Tinoco was born in Cuidad Lerdo Durango in 1900. He learned not only to fly in the United States but also to become an aviation mechanic, returning to Mexico in 1928 as part of an aerial circus. In 1932 he settled in Tuxtla Gutiérrez Chiapas with his two brothers where he established the company Transportes Aéreos de Chiapas where his airline established a series of routes where they airlifted products from those regions of the country. Transportes Aéreo de Chiapas expanded its operations to the states of Quintana Roo, Tabasco, Campeche, Yucatán and Chiapas. With the support of the federal government, it covered routes between Mexico City, Oaxaca, Ixtepec, Tuxtla Gutiérrez, and Tapachula. His company managed to have around 39 aircraft with only Mexican personnel, where he established its own aviation school and maintenance workshops. In 1933, after the search in which Sarabia's airline participated and the loss of the Spanish pilots, Sarabia wanted to return the gesture of Barberan and Collar's attempt to make a long-distance flight from Mexico to Spain, with an airplane manufactured in Mexico with the support of the Mexican people and government. By 1934, Sarabia, with the support of several politicians from his region (the governors of Chiapas and Durango), and with the new president of
The Republic, Major General Lázaro Cárdenas del Río (1895-1970) (Sarabia supported Cárdenas' candidacy) beginning his presidential term (other sources cite that Sarabia had presented his plan to the previous president, General Abelardo L. Rodriguez, before finishing his term). According to his initiative, it came through the Presidential General Staff under the command of Brigadier General Aeronautical Engineer Juan F. Azcarate Pino (1896-1987). A Pro-Mexico to Spain Flight Committee was formed, where the action plan was established to build a Mexican aircraft capable of performing the flight in aviation workshops and raise the money to build it through donations and subscriptions. The civilian pilot Francisco Sarabia Tinoco was appointed with the approval of the president, who perhaps did not sit well with some of the military pilots, since the air force pilots had made these types of flights on behalf of the nation. After a selection of aeronautical personnel, Sarabia selected naval military pilot Lieutenant P.A. Alberto Cortes y Cortes as navigator. Cortes had graduated in 1929 from the Veracruz Naval School and later from aviation school.
After the Mérida-Seville flight committee was formed, a team of the best Mexican aeronautical engineers was assembled to design and build the ideal aircraft for the project. According to some historians, this team encountered difficulties in designing the aircraft, which could not be built and ready by the date indicated by the construction subcommittee, as the personnel only had limited experience in aircraft construction. This is where the Mexicans used a foreign design by Dr. Michael Watter, who was working in the aeronautical workshops at the invitation of General Azcarate. During his time in Mexico, Azcarate designed and experimented with a new type of cowling for airplanes to improve flight performance. This was accomplished with the help of Azcarate and two Azcarate Corsairs. Dr. Michael Watter (Mikhail Vatter) (1899-1976) was born in Riga, Latvia, on August 3, 1899, when his country was part of the former Russian Empire. He studied engineering at the following schools:
Imperial Technical College in Moscow, Russia, 1916-1920
kyiv Polytechnic Institute, Russia, 1916-1920
After leaving Russia, he continued his studies in Italy at the Royal Polytechnic Institute of Turin, Italy, from 1920 to 1921. He received his degree in Aeronautical Engineering in 1921 after completing his postgraduate studies. In 1921, he left for the United States, where he found employment with the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Corporation. In 1923, he transferred to the Chance Vought Corporation, Long Island, New York, where he was chief designer in the technical and design department. In 1931, he left Chance Vought to work as an independent consultant. Around 1934, he went to Mexico to consult at Talleres de Aviación, where he worked on cowling and the Mérida-Seville project.
According to his biography, he earned his pilot's license in 1934 and later served in the U.S. Navy Reserve, rising to the rank of Lt. Commander. After his time in Mexico, he returned to the United States and joined the Budd Company in 1939 as director of aircraft research. By 1964, he was working at the Institute for Defense Analysis in Washington, D.C. He died in 1976.
It is reported that the letters MTW-1 are the initials of Dr. Watter (Michael T. Watter) from the "Barberan y Collar" aircraft, to give credit to Dr. Watter, and it received the Mexican registration XA-EX5.
The MTW-1 Aircraft
Dr. Watter's design was a high-wing, single-engine aircraft with two separate cockpits. It was basically a flying fuel tanker, capable of carrying the required amount of gasoline and oil (it could carry 5,000 liters of gasoline and 284 liters of oil) to enable a nonstop flight from Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico, to Seville, Spain, covering a distance of 8,055 kilometers.
Engine: Pratt & Whitney Wasp Radial, 550 hp, with the cowling designed by Dr. Watter and a Hamilton Standard constant-speed metal propeller.
With the following characteristics:
Span 16.68 m
Chord 2.30 m
Incidence angle 3 deg
Length 9.85 m
Height 2.80 m
Maximum weight 5,597 kg
Unladen weight 1,620 kg
Useful load
Gasoline (5,000 liters) 3,380 kg
Oil (284 liters) 255 kg
Crew (2) 190 kg
Miscellaneous 190 kg
Performance
Maximum speed 270 km/h
Cruising speed 200 km/h
Landing speed: 130 km/h
Maximum altitude: 20,000 m
Distance (70 hours): 11,600 km
The flight plan for the TNCA MTW-1 "Barberan and Collar" was to take off from near the city of Progreso, Yucatán, pass north of Havana, Cuba, then Miami, Florida, Bermuda, the Azores, St. Vincent, and finally Seville, Spain.
year and if it was possible to reach Barcelona to break a world record for nonstop flights. October 1933 The aircraft began construction at the National Aeronautical Construction Workshops (TNCA).
April 1934 The MTW-1 "Barberan y Collar" aircraft was almost finished, only the propeller from the United States and the covering were missing.
June 1934 By this time, the head of the Mérida-Seville flight project was Colonel P.A. Agustín González Castrejón (1894-1936), who was the deputy head of the Military Aeronautics Department.
June 14, 1934 Engine ground tests at the TNCA.
June 15, 1934 Landing gear damaged during taxiing to the runway. Sarabia and Lieutenant Alberto Cortes Cortes (Mexican Navy) were unharmed.
June 28, 1934 10-minute test flight by Sarabia at 4,000 feet over the Valley of Mexico.
June 30, 1934: 45-minute test flight by Sarabia at 3,000 feet above the Valley of Mexico.
July 5, 1934: Test flight with Sarabia and Dr. Watter at Mexico City's central airport. The MTW-1 was damaged by its landing gear upon landing.
July 1935: Planned flight from Mexico to Spain was canceled until next year. Problems were reported between Sarabia and Dr. Watter, as well as problems with the MTW-1's design. Some elements within the Air Force were unhappy that a civilian pilot had been assigned to fly this flight. The Army wanted to take over the project, remodel the plane, and first fly between Mexico and Washington, D.C., or New York.
According to the author of the Biography of Francisco Sarabia, he complained about the following defects of the MTW-1:
It was difficult to keep stable.
It had a tendency to dive.
The left wing dipped too much upon landing.
According to Dr. Watter, he complained about pilot Sarabia's experience and technique.
In October 1935, President Cárdenas's government took possession of the plane because the federal government contributed 60,000 pesos to the project. It is reported that the plane's engine was used for an Azcarate Corsario biplane. The rest of the plane remained in the workshops, eventually (unconfirmed) dismantling.
It is reported that a committee was planned to study the causes of the project's failure, but according to the author's information, it was never carried out.
SOURCES OF INFORMATION
TNCA MTW-1 Barberan and Collar: The Triumph That Failed by Héctor Dávila Cornejo, América Vuela Magazine, June-July 2003
Flight Test of a New Cowling-Type Engine Cowl by Dr. Michael Watter, Aero Digest, January 1934
A Brief History of Aviation in Mexico by José Villela Gómez, Mexico City, 1971
Reports from the U.S. Embassy in Mexico, from the Military Attaché (National Archives, Washington, DC)
January 22, 1934
April 3, 1934
February 16, 1934
June 12, 1934
July 10, 1934
October 29, 1935 www.aircrash.org, biographical information on Dr. Michael Watter.
The Conqueror of the Sky by Jorge Soria Murillo. Published in October 2003, Chilpancingo, Mexico.
Mexican Air Force Photo Archive.
Sr. Richard S. Allen Archive, Lewiston, ID, USA
General Archive of the Nation, Mexico City
Eng. Enrique Velasco Padilla Archive, Mexico City
Barberan and Collar: Air Pictorial, June 1959.
Written by Santiago A. Flores
7/9/2016
Sarabia, Carranza y Sidar son tres excelentes ejemplos de lo que representó en su tiempo, tener un espíritu intrépido para realizar vuelos a grandes distancias.
In the June 1933 the Spaniards Mariano Barberán y Joaquín Collar with their “Cuatro Vientos” Breguet XIX TR Super Bidón flew nonstop from Tablada (Sevilla) to Camagüey (Cuba). Sadly, th…
Oaxaca Aerospace is ready to bring a Mexican-made aircraft to the skies in 2026. The aircraft is the Pegasus PE-210A.
latamfdi.com
Target Markets: Emerging Economies Across the Globe
Oaxaca Aerospace sees significant commercial opportunities in emerging markets across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Used or outdated aircraft dominate many regions, and access to new, reliable, and affordable aircraft is limited. By offering a modern solution that combines cutting-edge technology with low maintenance and operational costs, the PE-210A and future P-400T models could fill a critical gap.
The company estimates it could capture 1% of the global light aircraft market, which translates to approximately 50 aircraft per year, aligning well with its projected manufacturing capabilities. Manuel Pérez Cárdenas, executive advisor to the president of the Business Coordinating Council (CCE), supported this projection, believing the company is well-positioned to meet this goal.
Competitive Advantage: Affordability and Efficiency
One of Oaxaca Aerospace’s most significant advantages is its pricing model. The PE-210A is expected to retail for around $3 million, just 30% of the cost of competing models like the Texan II, which is priced at approximately $10 million. This drastic cost reduction could make the aircraft appealing to developing nations or institutions with limited defense and training budgets.
According to Raúl Fernández, this price point positions the PE-210A as a compelling alternative in a market where affordability and operational simplicity are often key decision-making factors. With low acquisition and maintenance costs, the aircraft can potentially disrupt segments of the light aircraft market traditionally dominated by high-cost options from North America and Europe.
Kukulcán Aerodesign Partnership
June 27, 2023
Kukulcán Aerodesign is a student team focused on aircraft design. It participates in university competitions involving the design, construction, and flight of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to overcome various challenges and tests organized by SAE International.
Kukulcán Aerodesign is a student team focused on aircraft design
Kukulcán Aerodesign Team SAE Brazil 2019
Kukulcán Aerodesign Team
The Kukulcán Aerodesign team is made up of students passionate about aeronautical engineering and works in collaboration with the National Polytechnic Institute and various consulting companies, such as Grupo SSC, to develop and optimize the performance of their aircraft designs. Kukulcán Aerodesign's main objective is to promote practical learning, innovation, and creativity in the field of aeronautics, giving students the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge to a tangible and challenging project.
During my studies in Aeronautical Engineering, I had the opportunity to participate in the Kukulcán Aerodesign team as a member specializing in Structural Design, receiving advice from former members and professors of the institution, as well as from various companies such as Grupo SSC.
Our objective in the Structural area was to design a safe, functional, and aesthetically attractive aircraft that could efficiently fulfill the flight mission proposed by the Judging Committee of each competition. We began by analyzing the project's needs and requirements, which included the maximum allowable dimensions, maximum takeoff load, engine power, construction materials, and scoring maximization; all in accordance with applicable official regulations. From this, concepts are proposed and evaluated both qualitatively and quantitatively through different approaches. Finally, the concept that best meets the requirements is chosen.
Ansys in Aircraft Development for University Competitions
Using ANSYS Workbench and its various modules, including ANSYS Mechanical, ANSYS Fluent, ANSYS Meshing, ANSYS Space Claim, ANSYS Eigenvalue Blocking, and subcomponents such as System Coupling, ACP, and Mechanical APDL, we performed a detailed structural analysis to determine the applied loads and stresses occurring in each component of the proposed aircraft. Through several iterations, we considered various structural systems and materials, such as carbon fiber and lightweight wood, primarily evaluating their strength, manufacturing time, and cost. Once the structural design was complete, we generated the detailed drawings, technical specifications, and calculations necessary for the aircraft's construction.
Illustration of the Equivalent Stress Simulation of a Wing Structure
Equivalent Stress of a Wing Structure
During my participation in SAE competitions, I had the opportunity to learn how to use ANSYS software through the professional guidance of the SSC Group team and its Mescalea platform. This experience was very enriching and allowed me to apply my theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. Initially, I faced the challenge of familiarizing myself with the ANSYS interface and tools. I followed tutorials to understand how to enter and manipulate input data, as well as how to interpret the results obtained.
As I ran simulations, I carefully analyzed the results obtained in ANSYS. This included reviewing deformation, stress, and displacement graphs to assess the safety and performance of the structure under different scenarios.
During the learning process, I also faced technical challenges, such as properly calibrating the models and interpreting the results. However, through experimentation and the support of SSC Group, I was able to overcome these obstacles and obtain more accurate results.
Ground Vibration Test, conducted by the Kukulcán Aerodesign team
Ground Vibration Test
In short, learning to use ANSYS for structural design was a valuable experience that provided me with technical skills and practical knowledge to address complex problems in the field of structural engineering.
Furthermore, Kukulcán Aerodesign has allowed me to comprehensively shape my professional education through the sponsorship provided by Grupo SSC and the advice of current and former members, as well as the guidance of the institution's professors. Furthermore, the student team has been the best representative of the National Polytechnic Institute in recent years, achieving the following achievements:
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