Andalusia’s aerospace industry has entered a period of rapid growth, marked not only by record results but also by intense political and corporate conflicts. In just two decades, the region has transformed into one of Europe’s key aviation hubs, yet now it faces challenges that could shape its future.
Growth and new projects
In recent years, Andalusia has seen significant expansion in both military and civilian aviation sectors. Increased NATO defense budgets and a projected surge in demand for commercial air travel through 2040 have opened up new opportunities for local companies. Sevilla has secured its position as one of Airbus’s three main production centers in Europe, alongside Toulouse and Hamburg.
A key driver of this success has been close coordination between government bodies and business. This partnership led to the 2004 launch of the final assembly line for the military A400M aircraft in Sevilla, as well as the development of the Aerópolis technology park near the airport, bringing together dozens of high-tech firms. Over two decades, this cluster has become a symbol of industrial partnership and innovation in southern Europe.
Political disagreements and competition for facilities
However, in recent years, the previous consensus has begun to break down. After the change of power in Andalusia in 2018, the Aerópolis expansion project was put on hold, despite continued sector growth and an acute shortage of space for new investors. As a result, the Swiss company Pilatus established its first overseas manufacturing site not in the park itself, but in neighboring Carmona, where the major firm Sofitec already operates.
The situation is further complicated by political rivalry between municipalities and parties. The authorities of Sevilla and Carmona, representing different political forces, are competing for the right to attract new companies and investments. Against this backdrop, there are discussions about creating a new aerospace district with residential and industrial development, raising business concerns over potential loss of stability and predictability.
Corporate disputes and litigation
Political disagreements have also been compounded by internal conflicts between industry associations. In 2024, the Federation of Metalworking Companies of Sevilla (Fedeme) announced the creation of a regional defense hub, a move that angered the Andalucía Aerospace cluster. The confrontation escalated into legal battles, with both sides disputing who has the right to represent the sector’s interests and participate in collective bargaining talks.
As a result, many companies have been drawn into the conflict between the two organizations, adding an extra layer of uncertainty. Both sides present their arguments: Fedeme points to thousands of businesses and nearly half of the sector’s workforce, while Andalucía Aerospace maintains its role as the leading representative of innovative businesses.
Exports, employment, and future challenges
Despite internal disagreements, 2024 has been a record year for the sector: revenue reached nearly 3 billion euros, and the number of jobs grew by more than 7%. Exports also saw impressive growth, confirming the region’s international competitiveness.
However, experts warn that if political and corporate players fail to reach an agreement, Andalusia risks losing the ground it has gained. In the coming years, Europe will launch new aerospace and aviation programs, and now the race for leadership is being decided. For Seville and all of Andalusia, this is a decisive moment—the industry’s future depends on unity and strategic decisions.
