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 the continent. With a strong focus on sustainability, many firms are investing in electric propulsion and alternative fuels, reflecting the industry's commitment to reducing its environmental impact. The growth of urban air mobility solutions is also shaping the future, creating fresh opportunities for innovation and collaboration within the sector.


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


Top 12 Aircraft Manufacturing Investors in Europe


1. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital investor based in Paris, Île-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 the aircraft manufacturing sector, including an investment in Elixir Aircraft, a leader in low-carbon light aircraft, as part of a €40 million funding round aimed at enhancing the company's growth and production capabilities. Additionally, Bpifrance participated in the acquisition of Sabena technics, which operates in the aerospace industry, further demonstrating its commitment to supporting companies within the aircraft manufacturing space.


2. European Innovation Council (EIC)


The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a public entity based in Brussels, Belgium, established to support innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe. Founded in 1958, the EIC offers various funding programs, including the EIC Accelerator and EIC Pathfinder, aimed at helping startups and SMEs develop and scale their technologies. In recent years, the EIC has been actively involved in the 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 the 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 the growth of innovative companies in the aerospace industry.


3. European Investment Bank (EIB)


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, the EIB aims to promote growth and job creation through its funding initiatives. Notably, the EIB has been involved in significant transactions within the aircraft manufacturing context, such as providing €10 million in funding to Quantum-Systems GmbH, a Munich-based leader in small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS). This funding, part of the Investment Plan for Europe, was aimed at expanding operations and fostering technological innovation in the UAS mapping and surveillance industry. This involvement highlights the EIB's role in supporting advancements in the aircraft manufacturing sector, particularly in the realm of unmanned aerial vehicles.


4. Airbus

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

Airbus SE is a prominent aerospace manufacturer based in Blagnac, Occitanie, France, founded in 2003. The company specializes in the 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 the acquisition of Bombardier Inc.'s remaining shares in Airbus Canada Limited Partnership, which made Airbus the sole owner of the A220 Programme, and the 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: safran-group.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 9
  • LinkedIn: safran

Safran is a corporate investor based in Paris, Île-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 the aerospace sector. More recently, in 2024, Safran finalized the acquisition of Preligens, further expanding its portfolio. Additionally, Safran has invested in Cranfield Aerospace, collaborating on projects focused on hydrogen fuel cell-powered electric propulsion for aviation, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and technological advancement in the aircraft manufacturing industry.


6. Tikehau Capital


Tikehau Capital is an investment management firm based in Paris, specializing in alternative asset management. Founded in 2004, the 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 the context of aircraft manufacturing, Tikehau has been involved in significant transactions such as the debt financing of Daher, an aerospace company, and the acquisition negotiations for Sabena Technics, which specializes in aeronautical maintenance. Additionally, they have invested in Latecoere, Mecachrome France, and Nexteam Group, all of which are key players in the aerospace supply chain, further demonstrating their active role in the aircraft manufacturing sector.


7. Bgf

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

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 the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in RVL Group, a Midlands aviation specialist, providing £2.8m to support the final stages of a major project and to expand the company's aircraft fleet. Additionally, BGF has invested in Walker Precision Engineering, which, while primarily focused on precision engineering, serves the space market and may have applications in aerospace. These transactions highlight BGF's involvement in sectors that intersect with aircraft manufacturing, reinforcing their relevance in this industry.


8. Crowdcube

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

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 the 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 the 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 the aircraft manufacturing sector, alongside its broader investment activities in various industries.


9. Omnes

  • Website: omnescapital.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: omnes-capital

Omnes Capital is a private equity firm based in Paris, Île-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, they have made significant investments in the aerospace sector, including a EUR11.7 million investment in Aero Negoce International, a fasteners distributor dedicated to the aerospace industry, which highlights their involvement in the aircraft manufacturing supply chain. Additionally, they participated in funding rounds for Quantum Systems, a company involved in AI-powered drone robotics, further showcasing their interest in innovative technologies related to aviation.


10. Thales

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

Thales Group is a technology company founded in 1979, headquartered in Meudon, Île-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 the aerospace sector, including the acquisition of Cobham Aerospace Communications in April 2024, which strengthens its position in aerospace communications. Additionally, the acquisition of THALES RAYTHEON Systems in July 2016 further emphasizes its commitment to the aerospace and defense industries. Thales also invested in Eve Air Mobility, raising $357 million in April 2022, which aligns with the growing trend of urban air mobility solutions. These transactions highlight Thales's strategic focus on enhancing its capabilities within the aerospace manufacturing landscape.


11. 3i Group plc

  • Website: 3i.com
  • 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

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 them 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 the aircraft manufacturing sector, including a $6.7 million investment in Collins Aerospace in 2005 and an undisclosed investment in Pilatus Business Aircraft Ltd in the same year. Additionally, they 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 the aerospace industry and their role as an active investor in aircraft manufacturing.


12. Baillie Gifford

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

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, the 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, they have made significant investments in the 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, further highlights their engagement in the aerospace manufacturing industry. These transactions reflect Baillie Gifford's strategic interest in innovative aviation technologies and their potential for long-term growth.



Aircraft Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
European Innovation Council (EIC)Brussels, Brussels, Belgium201-500195857
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899
AirbusBlagnac, Occitanie, France10001+20036
SafranParis, Île-De-France, France10001+20059
Tikehau CapitalParis, Île-De-France, France501-100020046
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
CrowdcubeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020103
OmnesParis, Île-De-France, France51-20019998
ThalesMeudon, Île-De-France, France10001+19795
3i Group plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019453
Baillie GiffordEdinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)1001-5000190813


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