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The aircraft manufacturing industry in Europe includes major manufacturers and suppliers of commercial, military, and private aircraft. Notable companies in this sector design and produce everything from large jets to specialized aerospace components, contributing significantly to trade and employment across Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ continent. With a strong focus on sustainability, many firms are investing in electric propulsion and alternative fuels, reflecting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ industry's commitment to reducing its environmental impact. The growth of urban air mobility solutions is also shaping Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ future, creating fresh opportunities for innovation and collaboration within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sector.

The following list highlights significant investors in European aircraft manufacturing, showcasing corporate and venture capital entities headquartered across France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ UK. With operations ranging from small firms to large institutions, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se investors have actively supported Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ industry, as evidenced by Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir numerous 2024 investments. From startups to established corporations, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ investors have a combined history dating back to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ mid-20th century, focusing on technological advancements and sustainable growth in aviation.

Top 12 Aircraft Manufacturing Investors in Europe

1. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 198
• LinkedIn:

Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital investor based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 2015. As a public entity and financial institution, Bpifrance supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through a variety of services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. The institution aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in significant transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft manufacturing sector, including an investment in Elixir Aircraft, a leader in low-carbon light aircraft, as part of a â‚�40 million funding round aimed at enhancing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ company's growth and production capabilities. Additionally, Bpifrance participated in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Sabena technics, which operates in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r demonstrating its commitment to supporting companies within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft manufacturing space.

2. European Innovation Council (EIC)

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 57
• LinkedIn:

The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a public entity based in Brussels, Belgium, established to support innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe. Founded in 1958, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC offers various funding programs, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC Accelerator and EIC Pathfinder, aimed at helping startups and SMEs develop and scale Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir technologies. In recent years, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC has been actively involved in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft manufacturing sector, notably through its investments in companies like Heart Aerospace, which is developing a hybrid-electric aeroplane, and Maeve Aerospace, focused on a full-electric regional airliner. These investments highlight Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC's commitment to fostering innovation in aviation technology, particularly in sustainable and electric aircraft solutions. The EIC not only provides financial support but also offers business acceleration services and networking opportunities to enhance Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ growth of innovative companies in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry.

3. European Investment Bank (EIB)

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Luxembourg
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 99
• LinkedIn:

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg that provides financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services to support sustainable projects across various sectors. Founded in 1958, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIB aims to promote growth and job creation through its funding initiatives. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIB has been involved in significant transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft manufacturing context, such as providing â‚�10 million in funding to Quantum-Systems GmbH, a Munich-based leader in small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS). This funding, part of Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ Investment Plan for Europe, was aimed at expanding operations and fostering technological innovation in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ UAS mapping and surveillance industry. This involvement highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIB's role in supporting advancements in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft manufacturing sector, particularly in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ realm of unmanned aerial vehicles.

4. Airbus

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Blagnac, Occitanie, France
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn:

Airbus SE is a prominent aerospace manufacturer based in Blagnac, Occitanie, France, founded in 2003. The company specializes in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ design and production of commercial aircraft, helicopters, defense systems, and space technology, serving a global customer base that includes airlines, military organizations, and space agencies. Airbus is committed to sustainability and innovation in aerospace technology. Notable transactions include Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Bombardier Inc.'s remaining shares in Airbus Canada Limited Partnership, which made Airbus Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ sole owner of Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ A220 Programme, and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Satair A/S, a Danish aircraft parts distributor, enhancing its supply chain capabilities. Additionally, Airbus has invested in ZeroAvia, a company focused on developing hydrogen-powered engines for commercial aircraft, indicating its interest in advancing sustainable aviation technologies.

5. Safran

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 9
• LinkedIn:

Safran is a corporate investor based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 2005. As an aerospace manufacturer and defense contractor, Safran specializes in aircraft equipment, propulsion systems, and defense technologies. The company serves a diverse clientele, including aircraft manufacturers and military organizations, by providing innovative solutions that enhance safety and operational efficiency in aviation and defense sectors. In 2017, Safran made a significant move by acquiring Zodiac Aerospace for approximately $9 billion, which bolstered its position in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector. More recently, in 2024, Safran finalized Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Preligens, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r expanding its portfolio. Additionally, Safran has invested in Cranfield Aerospace, collaborating on projects focused on hydrogen fuel cell-powered electric propulsion for aviation, showcasing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to sustainability and technological advancement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft manufacturing industry.

6. Tikehau Capital

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 501-1000
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn:

Tikehau Capital is an investment management firm based in Paris, specializing in alternative asset management. Founded in 2004, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ firm offers a range of services including private debt, private equity, real assets, and capital markets strategies. Tikehau Capital serves a diverse clientele, including institutional and private investors, as well as SMEs seeking tailored financing solutions to support growth and sustainability initiatives. In Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ context of aircraft manufacturing, Tikehau has been involved in significant transactions such as Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ debt financing of Daher, an aerospace company, and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition negotiations for Sabena Technics, which specializes in aeronautical maintenance. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have invested in Latecoere, Mecachrome France, and Nexteam Group, all of which are key players in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace supply chain, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r demonstrating Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir active role in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft manufacturing sector.

7. Bgf

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 53
• LinkedIn:

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm founded in 2011, based in London, England. The firm specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses across Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ UK and Ireland. BGF addresses Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ funding gap in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in RVL Group, a Midlands aviation specialist, providing £2.8m to support Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ final stages of a major project and to expand Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ company's aircraft fleet. Additionally, BGF has invested in Walker Precision Engineering, which, while primarily focused on precision engineering, serves Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ space market and may have applications in aerospace. These transactions highlight BGF's involvement in sectors that intersect with aircraft manufacturing, reinforcing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir relevance in this industry.

8. Crowdcube

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn:

Crowdcube is a London-based crowdfunding platform founded in 2010 that enables businesses to raise capital through equity investments. It connects startups and SMEs with potential investors, facilitating Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ funding process. The platform emphasizes diversity and inclusion within its workforce while providing investment management services. Notably, Crowdcube has been involved in significant transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft manufacturing context, such as funding Hybrid Air Vehicles through convertible notes in 2020 and 2021. These investments highlight Crowdcube's role in supporting innovative companies in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft manufacturing sector, alongside its broader investment activities in various industries.

9. Omnes

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 8
• LinkedIn:

Omnes Capital is a private equity firm based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in investment management with a focus on sectors such as renewable energy and sustainable cities. Omnes Capital emphasizes long-term partnerships to foster growth and sustainability in critical infrastructure projects. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, including a EUR11.7 million investment in Aero Negoce International, a fasteners distributor dedicated to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry, which highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir involvement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft manufacturing supply chain. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y participated in funding rounds for Quantum Systems, a company involved in AI-powered drone robotics, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r showcasing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir interest in innovative technologies related to aviation.

10. Thales

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Meudon, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 5
• LinkedIn:

Thales Group is a technology company founded in 1979, headquartered in Meudon, ÃŽle-De-France, France. It specializes in designing, developing, and manufacturing advanced electrical systems and devices for various sectors, including aerospace, defense, transportation, and security. Thales serves a diverse clientele, including governments and commercial enterprises, providing solutions that enhance operational efficiency and safety. Notably, Thales has made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Cobham Aerospace Communications in April 2024, which strengÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ns its position in aerospace communications. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of THALES RAYTHEON Systems in July 2016 furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r emphasizes its commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace and defense industries. Thales also invested in Eve Air Mobility, raising $357 million in April 2022, which aligns with Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ growing trend of urban air mobility solutions. These transactions highlight Thales's strategic focus on enhancing its capabilities within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace manufacturing landscape.

11. 3i Group plc

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1945
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn:

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity and infrastructure investment firm founded in 1945. The firm specializes in providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, helping Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m grow sustainably. With a strong international presence and a diverse portfolio, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Notably, 3i Group has made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft manufacturing sector, including a $6.7 million investment in Collins Aerospace in 2005 and an undisclosed investment in Pilatus Business Aircraft Ltd in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ same year. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y acquired Dynatect Manufacturing in 2014, a company that, while not exclusively focused on aircraft manufacturing, operates in sectors that support aerospace applications. These transactions highlight 3i Group's commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir role as an active investor in aircraft manufacturing.

12. Baillie Gifford

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1908
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 13
• LinkedIn:

Baillie Gifford & Co is an investment management firm based in Edinburgh, Scotland, specializing in managing equity, fixed-income, and multi-asset portfolios. Founded in 1908, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ firm serves professional investors, including institutions and high-net-worth individuals, by providing expert investment management and advisory services focused on long-term growth opportunities. Baillie Gifford employs a research-driven approach to deliver sustainable returns for its clients. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, including a $35 million investment in Lilium, which is developing eVTOL aircraft, and a $105 million investment in Merlin Labs, a company focused on autonomous flight technology. Their involvement with SpaceX, which raised $486 million in a Series J funding round, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace manufacturing industry. These transactions reflect Baillie Gifford's strategic interest in innovative aviation technologies and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir potential for long-term growth.

Aircraft Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in Europe

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	1-10	2015	198
	Brussels, Brussels, Belgium	201-500	1958	57
	Luxembourg	1001-5000	1958	99
	Blagnac, Occitanie, France	10001+	2003	6
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	10001+	2005	9
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	501-1000	2004	6
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	2011	53
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	2010	3
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	51-200	1999	8
	Meudon, ÃŽle-De-France, France	10001+	1979	5
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	201-500	1945	3
	Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)	1001-5000	1908	13

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