Belgian aerospace group Sonaca, a global leader in the sector, has inaugurated a new production facility at its plant in Bădeni, Cluj County. The expansion follows the signing of three strategic contracts with Airbus and strengthens the company’s manufacturing capacity, including by supporting dual sourcing for the Airbus A320 program.
Increased capacity and workforce development
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The new hall, completed in late 2024 and officially received in May 2025, covers 14,000 square meters and doubles Sonaca Romania’s production capacity. “This achievement demonstrates our ability to efficiently deliver strategic projects and support the group’s growth,” stated Charles Roussel, General Manager of Sonaca Romania.
The investment will also expand the local team, with 160 new roles in technical and support areas, including CNC machining operators, sheet metal forming specialists, surface treatment technicians and metal bonding experts. Once recruitment is finalized, the Romanian plant will employ around 300 people.
New Airbus production programs
The facility will manufacture key structural components for Airbus A320 slats and Airbus A321 flaps, using advanced sheet-metal forming and metal bonding technologies that comply with Airbus’ stringent performance standards. “The market is shifting toward higher technological complexity and stricter performance requirements. We are adapting by strengthening our innovation capabilities and delivering reliable, high-quality structural components. This partnership marks an important milestone in our nearly 40-year relationship with Airbus,” said Yves Delatte, CEO of Sonaca Group.
Following its acquisition of Aciturri, Sonaca now employs 6,700 people and reports annual revenues of 1.2 billion euros. The group supplies components for civil, defense and space markets, serving major clients such as Boeing, Bombardier, Embraer, Airbus, Dassault, and Pilatus.
Opportunities for Cluj
The investment not only doubles production capacity but also develops new technical expertise and creates jobs in the region, reinforcing Cluj as an aerospace manufacturing hub. Recruitment efforts will continue in the coming months.
Photo: Economica
