France, the third-largest economy in Europe and sixth-largest in the world, boasts a robust international reputation across various industries. With a GDP of $2.4 trillion, the country has established itself as a powerhouse in energy, agriculture, automobile, and aerospace. The aerospace sector, in particular, has experienced substantial growth, fueled by increased global demand for air travel. France’s prominent aerospace companies, such as Airbus and Dassault, have been pivotal in driving this expansion. While the traditional aerospace hub resides in Occitanie and Nouvelle Aquitaine, the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region is quickly emerging as an equally influential player. With its vast size, dynamic economy, and thriving industrial and research sectors, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is poised to make significant contributions to the aerospace industry’s continued growth.

Formed through the merger of Auvergne and Rhône-Alpes in 2014, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes covers a sprawling 70,000km² in southeastern France, stretching from the Swiss and Italian borders to the country’s center. This expansive region generates 11.4% of France’s national GDP, amounting to €240 billion, making it the second wealthiest region in the country and the eighth in Europe. Renowned as one of the most industrially developed areas in Europe, it is home to over 500,000 individuals employed in industrial jobs. Recognized as one of the “Four Motors for Europe,” along with Baden-Württemberg in Germany, Lombardy in Italy, and Catalonia in Spain, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes showcases its significant economic influence.

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes not only excels in industrial activity but also thrives in research, design, and innovation. With over 40,000 residents engaged in research-based roles and more than 600 laboratory facilities, the region ranks as the second-highest in France for research output and the fifth-highest in Europe. It closely follows Île-de-France in terms of the number of patents filed each year, with 20% of all patents in France originating from this region. This rich research ecosystem provides a strong foundation for the aerospace industry, attracting Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and a multitude of thriving Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers. The region’s vibrant aerospace sector is complemented by numerous SMEs offering specialized products and services.

Under the leadership of Laurent Wauquiez, the president of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, significant efforts have been made to position the region as one of the leading aerospace hubs. A partnership agreement and action plan with Dassault Aviation were signed in 2017, solidifying the commitment to foster industry growth. The action plan focuses on developing apprenticeship programs and sponsoring start-up companies in underrepresented sectors of the industry. These initiatives, combined with the strong presence of aerospace giants like Airbus and Dassault, create a favorable environment for the sustained expansion of the aerospace sector in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.

To facilitate the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes offers comprehensive support. This includes access to European research funding schemes and crucial assistance from Entreprises Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, a government agency established in 2017 to nurture business development in the region. The agency simplifies the landscape for SMEs, identifying companies with high growth potential and providing support in various areas such as HR and training, financing, investment, innovation project strategies, and internationalization. Additionally, the agency facilitates research grants and business meetings with international companies, enabling SMEs to capitalize on opportunities they may not have had access to otherwise.

Entreprises Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes actively promotes the region’s aerospace industry by attending aeronautical business shows and organizing meetings with international companies interested in working in France. The agency aims to increase the number of SMEs benefiting from European funding and entices companies to consider Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes by highlighting the region’s strengths and the capabilities of its companies.

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, within the dynamic landscape of French industry, stands as a thriving hub for the aerospace sector. Its vast size, significant contribution to France’s GDP, and reputation as an industrial powerhouse make it a key player in European economic development. With a strong emphasis on research, innovation, and business support, the region provides a fertile environment for aerospace companies, from industry giants to specialized SMEs. As the aerospace industry continues to grow globally, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is well-positioned to contribute to this expansion and solidify its status as a leading aerospace region in France and beyond.