Aero Vodochody, the largest aerospace manufacturer in the Czech Republic, is delighted to announce the signing of Long Term Collaboration Agreement (LTCA) covering the design, development and manufacturing of Wing Fixed Leading Edges for new and innovative CSeries Aircraft by Bombardier. The implementation of the initial phase involving both Czech and Belgian design engineers will start immediately. This contract is for the life of the aircraft and has potential revenues of USD 400m.

"It is a great honour for us but also a big responsibility to participate on such innovative program for the new Bombardier CSeries Aircraft. We in Aero feel excited to join this program that represents an important step in our strategic direction to further develop industrial cooperation in the area of aero-structures market," said Igor Hulak, President of Aero Vodochody.

Bernard Delvaux, CEO of Sonaca, added: "I am very happy and proud of this cooperation with Aero Vodochody and I hope that this agreement is a first step that will enable a long and fruitful cooperation with our new partner."

Aero Vodochody is currently expanding its aero-structures business and Sonaca is looking to extend its current worldwide leadership in the manufacture of slats (mobile Wing Leading Edges), as well as Fixed Leading Edges. The LTCA therefore defines a framework for partnership which will optimize the complementary capabilities of the two companies. With the strength and experience of both companies, Sonaca and AERO will be uniquely positioned to gain access to other new markets with the ability to offer product development and risk and revenue sharing.