Fokker signs substantial contract with Airbus for A350 XWB outboard flaps

Today Stork Fokker AESP has signed an important contract with Airbus for the development and manufacturing of the composite outboard Flaps for the A350 XWB family of aircraft.

Outboard flaps are increasing the surface-area of the wing during take-off and landing. The A350 XWB composite flaps have unique capabilities. For the first time differential flap settings are applied, enabling the center of lift to be moved depending on the loading scenario. Development activities, scheduled to last 18 months, have already started in Papendrecht in close collaboration with Airbus Operating Company in Bremen with first hardware deliveries in 2011. During serial production, Fokker intends to produce 140 sets of flaps annually. The new contract will ensure employment for 100 specialists.

This contract recognizes Fokker's position as a specialist in complex lightweight aerostructures. The company recently won the contract for the JSF Flaperons and already produces the inboard flaps for the Boeing 747-8 and the Flaperons for the F16. Fokker and Airbus have a long lasting business relationship. The company is an important supplier on the A380 for the Glare (glass fibre reinforced) fuselage panels and the thermoplastic leading edge. The awarded contract expands this position to the latest Airbus program and is therefore considered a real milestone.

"We are delighted with the opportunity for growth and development of highly qualified employment that this contract brings. It is an excellent achievement for Dutch aerospace industry proving that collaboration between knowledge institutes, industry and government creates a fruitful innovative environment, enabling the industry to win substantial orders in new aircraft programs" says Henk Valk Executive Vice President.

The A350 XWB Family is Airbus' response to widespread market demand for a series of highly efficient medium-capacity long-range wide-body aircraft. With a range of up to 8,300 nm / 15,400 km, it is available in three basic passenger versions.

The A350 XWB has the widest fuselage in its category, offering unprecedented levels of comfort, the lowest operating costs and lowest seat mile cost of any aircraft in this market segment. Powered by two new generation Rolls Royce Trent XWB engines, the A350 XWB Family is designed to confront the challenges of high fuel prices, rising passenger expectations, and environmental constraints.