Aragon, epicenter of european aerospace innovation

Zaragoza is hosting the 2025 General Assembly of the European Aerospace Cluster Partnership (EACP), which brings together the main clusters and stakeholders in the European aerospace and defense sector. 

The Aragon Aerospace and Defense Cluster (AERA) is hosting the 2025 General Assembly of the European Aerospace Cluster Partnership (EACP), making Aragon the meeting point for European aerospace innovation.

This event, which brings together more than 45 European associations from 18 countries, represents an ecosystem of more than 5,000 companies, 430 research institutions, and 125 public organizations, and aims to coordinate common agendas and strengthen the European position in strategic aerospace, space, and defense programs.

The European aerospace and defense industry, with an annual turnover of €290 billion, has grown by 10.1% compared to the previous year and by more than 20% since 2022. It employs more than one million professionals and accounts for 24.6% of the sector's global turnover. Spain, one of the most influential countries in the aerospace field within the EU and the fourth largest European country by sales volume, reached a turnover of €16.153 billion in 2024, with 61% from exports and €1.4 billion invested in R&D&I.

It is within this context that the 2025 General Assembly of the European Aerospace Cluster Partnership (EACP) is being held. For 15 years, the EACP has been promoting the exchange of experiences, policy learning, and cooperation to achieve high performance among aerospace clusters and address the challenges facing the sector in Europe. "The collaboration between AERA and EACP propels us forward and positions us at the forefront of the industry. Let us continue working together, with the same determination and vision, so that the aerospace sector in Spain and Europe continues to take flight towards a future of success and innovation," acknowledged Alejandro F. Ibrahim, President of AERA and General Manager of Teruel Airport.

AERA, a leading aerospace cluster in Southern Europe

Founded in 2007, AERA was the first regional cluster in Aragon and now has nearly 70 member companies across seven industrial sectors. Its members collectively represent €1.1 billion in revenue and 6,647 employees, 80% of whom are SMEs. AERA integrates research centers, the University of Zaragoza, major companies, and public institutions such as AREX (Aragon Exterior), which promote the international reach of the Aragonese aerospace ecosystem.

"The nations of Europe, so rich in their individuality, have learned a vital lesson: when we work together, our aspirations are limitless." With this inspiring welcome, Inés Villa, manager of AERA, opened the event.

Recognition of Aerospace Excellence

During the institutional dinner, held at the Hotel Palafox in Zaragoza, organizations and professionals were honored for their outstanding contribution to the development of the aerospace, aeronautical, and defense sector in Aragon and Europe.

• Sallén Aviación, for its aeronautical excellence. With over 40 years of experience in the Aragonese aeronautical industry, the company has participated in flight, defense, and aerospace programs, establishing itself as a leading supplier in demanding production processes and an example of commitment to quality and industrial innovation. The award was presented by Gemma Ortiz de Barrón, Director of Institutional Relations at Aernnova, and accepted by Manuel Sallén, CEO of Sallén Aviación.
• AITIIP Technological Center, for its excellence in technological development and aeronautical innovation. A leading center in Aragon and Europe, AITIIP promotes applied research, 3D printing, composite materials, and industrial digitalization, leading European projects that bring R&D&I closer to real-world industry. Its work has contributed to modernizing production processes and fostering sustainability in the aeronautical value chain. The award was presented by Jesús Presa, General Aviation and Military Senior Account Manager at BP Spain, and accepted by Berta Gonzalvo, Research Director at the AITIIP Foundation.
• Airbus Spain, for its leadership and contribution to the development of the European aerospace sector. An international benchmark in innovation, engineering, and technology, Airbus symbolizes industrial excellence and a successful example of European collaboration. As a driving force in the aerospace sector in Spain, it strengthens the country's ability to compete in major European programs. The award was presented by Mar Vaquero, Vice President and Minister of the Presidency, Economy, and Justice of the Government of Aragon, and accepted by Ricardo Rojas, President of Commercial Aircraft at Airbus Spain.
• Mar Vaquero, Vice President and Minister of the Presidency, Economy, and Justice of the Government of Aragon, accepted the last of the awards for her drive and commitment to aeronautical, aerospace, and defense technology. Recognized for its strategic vision and continued support of the Aragonese innovation ecosystem, it has promoted growth policies, public-private partnerships, and internationalization that have contributed to positioning Aragon as a leading innovation hub in Europe. The award was presented by Alejandro Ibrahim, President of AERA and General Manager of Teruel Airport.

Mar Vaquero, Vice President and Minister of the Presidency, Economy, and Justice of the Government of Aragon, emphasized that "with the holding of this assembly, Aragon is once again at the epicenter of a strategic sector like aerospace and aeronautics, an area that we are decisively promoting from the Government of Aragon due to its enormous technological and defense potential. Today we can show Europe the strength of our industrial ecosystem, from Zaragoza Airport—the second busiest in Spain for cargo—to Teruel Airport, which has already become a true hub for innovation and employment."

Regarding the recognition, she added that "it is shared with all of Aragonese society, which has looked to the skies and committed to a future of progress and economic diversification."

Aragon, a strategic hub for the aerospace sector

Aragon is reinforcing its role as a model of balance between industrial capacity, infrastructure, and technological talent. Among its strategic assets are Zaragoza Airport, one of the continent's largest cargo hubs and a benchmark in air safety; Teruel Airport, the largest European platform for aircraft maintenance, storage, and recycling; and Huesca Airport, with new technological developments in engine decommissioning and parts manufacturing.

"The aerospace and defense sector is one of Europe's most inspiring achievements. Beyond the numbers, it represents the ability to design, build, and fly toward the future, together," highlighted Alejandro F. Ibrahim. "Our region is a model of balance between industrial capacity, world-class infrastructure, and technological talent. Aragon is today a strategic epicenter in southern Europe," he stated before the more than 200 guests.

Furthermore, the region continues to attract major investments in advanced manufacturing, data centers and defense, including the recent €42 million investment by the Ministry of Defense for the new Comprehensive Air Mobility Training Center in Teruel.

An event that strengthens Aragon's international standing

The hosting of the EACP General Assembly in Aragon reinforces the international visibility of the Aragonese aerospace and defense ecosystem, consolidates new European alliances, and positions the region as a key hub in the continent's major innovation, competitiveness, and security agendas.

As part of the official program, the more than 200 representatives of European clusters and entities will travel to Teruel Airport on November 6, where they will learn firsthand about its facilities, industrial capabilities, and the companies located there.

The visit will showcase the technological and logistical potential of the airport platform, considered a European benchmark in aircraft maintenance, storage, and recycling, as well as a key space for innovation and industrial development in the aerospace sector in Europe.

EACP representative Niklas Schilling highlighted the excellent reception received in Spain and, in particular, in Aragon, emphasizing that it has been "one of the best General Assemblies he can remember." He especially thanked AERA Cluster for its collaboration and hosting role, highlighting that "the EACP is built on trust, communication, and cooperation; we are like a family, a sector that, united, is able to move forward and grow. Thanks to this unity, we have strengthened this European network of aerospace clusters."