While Mexico’s industrial capacity is often associated with the automotive sector, an equally dynamic and technologically advanced industry has firmly established the country as a critical node in a global supply chain: the aerospace industry in Mexico. Over the past two decades, Mexico has transitioned from a new entrant to an indispensable hub for aerospace manufacturing, engineering, and maintenance. Consequently, for international aerospace and defense corporations, understanding the depth and sophistication of Mexico’s capabilities is essential for navigating the future of North American and global aviation.
This report provides a detailed analysis of the Mexican aerospace sector, outlining its significant global standing, its robust growth metrics, and the highly developed regional clusters that form the backbone of the industry. The data clearly indicates that Mexico is not merely a low-cost option; on the contrary, it is a center of excellence that provides high-value, complex components and services to the world’s leading aviation companies.
First and foremost, Mexico’s position in the global aerospace industry is significant and well-established. The country currently ranks as the 12th largest aerospace producer in the world, a remarkable achievement driven by consistent growth and substantial foreign investment. This is not a recent development; in fact, the industry has demonstrated an impressive average annual growth rate of 14% over the last 15 years, showcasing its long-term stability and resilience.
The financial metrics of the sector underscore its importance. For example, the market value of the Mexican aerospace industry was estimated at USD 11.2 billion at the end of 2024. Furthermore, industry projections are incredibly strong. The Mexican Federation of the Aerospace Industry (FEMIA) forecasts that the market will more than double, reaching USD 22.7 billion by 2029, fueled by a projected annual growth rate of over 15%. A key driver of this value is the sector’s powerful export performance. For instance, aerospace exports are projected to surpass USD 10 billion for the first time in 2024, cementing the industry’s role as a major contributor to Mexico’s trade balance.
This success is built on a solid foundation of over 380 specialized aerospace companies operating across 19 states. These firms are not just assemblers; they are highly sophisticated manufacturers, service providers, and R&D centers that form a complex and integrated ecosystem. As a result, the industry supports over 50,000 high-skilled direct jobs and an additional 190,000 indirect jobs, making it a vital engine for economic development.
A common misconception is that Mexico’s aerospace industry is limited to simple assemblies. The reality, however, is that the country has developed deep capabilities in the high-precision manufacturing of complex components and systems that are critical to modern aircraft. In short, Mexico is where essential parts of an airplane are born.
The manufacturing capabilities are incredibly diverse and sophisticated. For example, Mexican facilities produce a wide range of vital components, including:
Propulsion Systems: Manufacturing of complex turbine engine components, nacelles, and engine housings.
Aerostructures: Production of fuselages, stabilizers, flight control surfaces like wing assemblies, and landing gear systems.
Avionics and Electrical Systems: Assembly of complex wiring harnesses, control panels, and other critical electronic systems. In fact, a significant portion of the electrical wiring for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner is produced in Chihuahua.
Aircraft Interiors: Manufacturing of seats, luggage compartments, cabin modules, and other interior components.
This level of manufacturing sophistication requires adherence to the most stringent global quality standards. Consequently, the vast majority of Mexican aerospace suppliers are certified under international regulations such as AS9100 (Aerospace Quality Management) and others, ensuring their products meet the exacting requirements of clients like Airbus, Boeing, Bombardier, and Safran.
Similar to the automotive sector, the aerospace industry’s strength is concentrated in several highly developed and specialized regional clusters. Each of these hubs has cultivated a unique identity and set of capabilities.
Querétaro has firmly established itself as the leading and most balanced aerospace cluster in Mexico. It is not only a center for manufacturing but also for Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services and advanced R&D. The state hosts over 80 aerospace firms, including global giants like Safran and Bombardier. In fact, Safran is the largest aerospace employer in Mexico, with a significant presence in Querétaro. The state is also home to the prestigious Aeronautical University of Querétaro (UNAQ), a unique institution dedicated entirely to training the next generation of aerospace engineers and technicians. As a result, Querétaro has attracted a significant portion of the industry’s FDI and leads the nation in the production of complex components like landing gear systems and engine parts.
Baja California, particularly the cities of Tijuana and Mexicali, is home to the largest number of aerospace companies in Mexico, with over 94 firms representing 21% of the national total. This cluster is the oldest in the country, with nearly 50 years of experience. Consequently, it has developed a deep and mature supply chain. The industry in Baja California generates over 40,000 direct jobs and is specialized in the production of avionics, electrical systems, and aircraft interiors. Its proximity to Southern California’s massive aerospace and defense industry creates a powerful cross-border ecosystem, with major companies like Honeywell and Collins Aerospace having significant operations there.
The state of Chihuahua has cultivated a reputation for excellence in high-precision machining and complex assembly. It is home to over 45 certified suppliers and major OEMs. For instance, Bell Helicopters assembles a significant portion of its 407 and 429 helicopter models in Chihuahua. In addition, Honeywell operates its largest machining center in Latin America in the state, and Safran runs the world’s largest facility for wiring harness fabrication. This specialization in high-value processes makes Chihuahua a critical link in the supply chain for complex aerostructures and mechanical systems.
Sonora has carved out a vital niche as Mexico’s “turbine capital.” The state’s cluster of over 60 aerospace firms specializes in the manufacturing, repair, and testing of gas turbine engine components. This focus has attracted major players like GE Aviation and Rolls-Royce. Its strategic location bordering Arizona creates a powerful binational megaregion for collaboration with the U.S. aerospace industry. In addition to engine components, the Sonora cluster is also strong in producing air systems and precision machined parts.
Ultimately, the success of such a high-technology industry depends entirely on the quality of its workforce. Mexico has invested heavily in developing a robust pipeline of engineering and technical talent specifically for the aerospace sector.
Nationally, Mexican universities and technical schools produce over 25,000 graduates from aerospace-related programs each year. This includes degrees in mechanical engineering, mechatronics, electrical engineering, and specialized aeronautical engineering. This steady flow of talent ensures that companies investing in Mexico have access to the skilled labor necessary to operate and grow.
Institutions like the aforementioned UNAQ in Querétaro are a testament to this commitment. The university works in close collaboration with industry leaders like Safran and Airbus to ensure its curriculum is perfectly aligned with the real-world needs of the sector. Similarly, other universities across the country have established partnerships with aerospace companies to provide internships, co-op programs, and specialized training. Therefore, companies operating in Mexico benefit not just from a large talent pool, but from one that is specifically trained and prepared for the unique challenges of the aerospace industry.
In conclusion, the aerospace industry in Mexico is a mature, sophisticated, and rapidly growing sector. It offers international companies a powerful combination of advanced manufacturing capabilities, a highly skilled workforce, and a network of specialized geographic clusters. As a result, Mexico has solidified its position as an indispensable partner in the global aerospace supply chain, poised for even greater growth in the years to come.
