The aircraft engine manufacturers industry in Europe plays a crucial role in aviation innovation and sustainability. This sector is home to major firms producing jet engines, turbofans, and support services for both commercial and military aircraft. Companies not only create engines but also develop advanced repair and maintenance technologies. With a growing focus on eco-friendly aviation solutions, the industry is shifting towards hybrid-electric and hydrogen-powered engines. Recent advancements are expected to reduce emissions, enhancing operational efficiency. Additionally, collaborations with startups are fostering innovation in aerospace technologies, indicating a bright future for the industry.


The list features 19 investors from Europe’s aircraft engine manufacturing arena, spanning venture capital firms, corporate investors, and private equity players. Headquartered mainly in major cities like London, Paris, and Brussels, these firms vary in size from small boutiques to large corporations with thousands of employees. The investors were founded between 1814 and 2018, showcasing a rich history of support for innovation. In 2024, these investors collectively made crucial partnerships and financial commitments to companies like Airbus and Bpifrance, positioning themselves central to the evolving aerospace landscape.


Top 19 Aircraft Engine Manufacturers 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 range of services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. The firm aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in significant transactions within the aerospace sector, such as its investment in Sabena technics, which focuses on aircraft maintenance and services, and its recent funding of Beyond Aero, a company likely engaged in aerospace innovation. These transactions highlight Bpifrance's commitment to supporting the growth of companies in the aircraft industry.


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 2024, the EIC has made 57 investments, showcasing its active role in fostering innovation. Notably, the EIC has participated in significant funding rounds for companies in the aerospace sector, such as Heart Aerospace, which is developing a hybrid-electric aeroplane and has raised substantial funding with EIC's involvement. Additionally, the EIC has supported Maeve Aerospace, a startup focused on a full-electric regional airliner, through grants and funding, further emphasizing its commitment to advancing sustainable aviation technologies.


3. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, founded in 1958, that provides financial services such as loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services to support sustainable projects across various sectors. In 2024, EIB was involved in 99 investments, showcasing its active role in financing diverse initiatives. Notably, EIB provided funding of €10 million to Quantum-Systems GmbH, a leader in small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS), which highlights its commitment to supporting technological innovation in the aerospace sector. This funding was part of the Investment Plan for Europe and aimed to expand operations in the professional UAS mapping and surveillance industry. Other transactions include significant debt financing for companies like MAHLE and INERATEC, although these are less directly related to aircraft engines. Overall, EIB's investments reflect a broader strategy to promote growth and job creation, with a notable interest in the aerospace industry.


4. 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 prominent aerospace manufacturer and defense contractor based in Paris, Île-De-France, France. Founded in 2005, the company specializes in aircraft equipment, propulsion systems, and defense technologies, serving a diverse clientele that includes aircraft manufacturers and military organizations. Safran is committed to innovation, sustainability, and technological advancement in the aviation and defense sectors. In recent years, Safran has made significant investments to strengthen its position in the aerospace industry, including the acquisition of Zodiac Aerospace for approximately $9 billion in 2017, which expanded its capabilities in aircraft systems and components. Additionally, Safran Aircraft Engines acquired Component Repair Technologies in September 2024, further enhancing its expertise in engine repair and maintenance. These transactions underscore Safran's strategic focus on the aircraft engine manufacturing sector and its commitment to advancing aerospace technologies.


5. 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 leading aerospace manufacturer based in Blagnac, Occitanie, France, specializing in the design and production of commercial aircraft, helicopters, defense systems, and space technology. Founded in 2003, Airbus serves a global customer base, including airlines, military organizations, and space agencies, providing innovative solutions that enhance connectivity, security, and exploration. In 2024, Airbus participated in a Series C funding round for ZeroAvia, co-leading the investment alongside Barclays Sustainable Impact Capital and NEOM. This investment, aimed at supporting the certification of ZeroAvia's hydrogen-powered engines, highlights Airbus's commitment to advancing sustainable aviation technology. Additionally, Airbus has made strategic acquisitions, such as Satair A/S and Vector Aerospace Corp, which enhance their capabilities in aircraft parts and services, further solidifying their position in the aerospace sector.


6. Tikehau Capital


Tikehau Capital is an investment management firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, specializing in alternative asset management. Founded in 2004, the firm offers a diverse range of services, including private debt, private equity, real assets, and capital markets strategies. Their clientele includes institutional and private investors, as well as SMEs seeking tailored financing solutions to support growth and sustainability initiatives. Tikehau Capital has been involved in several notable transactions within the aerospace sector, such as providing debt financing to Daher, a key player in the aerospace industry, and participating in a private equity round for Mecachrome France, which serves the aerospace sector with precision engineering. They are also in exclusive negotiations to acquire Sabena Technics, a company focused on aeronautical maintenance, further demonstrating their commitment to the aerospace industry. Additionally, their investment in Nexteam Group, a precision mechanics and machining company, aligns with the needs of aircraft engine manufacturers, showcasing their strategic interest in supporting companies that contribute to the aerospace supply chain.


7. Shell

  • Website: shell.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1907
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 20
  • LinkedIn: shell

Shell plc is a multinational oil and gas company based in London, England, that operates in the energy and chemicals sectors. Founded in 1907, Shell provides essential products such as fuels, lubricants, and chemical solutions to businesses and consumers globally. In recent years, Shell has expanded its investment portfolio to include innovative companies in the aviation sector. Notably, Shell has invested in ZeroAvia, a company focused on developing hydrogen-powered aircraft engines, with multiple funding rounds totaling over $100 million. Additionally, Shell participated in a Series A funding round for i6 Group, which is involved in aviation technology. These investments highlight Shell's commitment to advancing sustainable aviation solutions and its strategic interest in the aircraft engine manufacturing industry.


8. 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 focuses on providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses in the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in several companies relevant to the aerospace sector, including an £8.5 million investment in Independent Forgings & Alloys, which specializes in aerospace and industrial forging. Additionally, BGF has invested in Polar Technology Management Group, a specialist engineering company, and Prodrive Composites, which focuses on motorsport engineering and carbon fibre composites. These transactions highlight BGF's commitment to supporting businesses that contribute to the aerospace industry, making them a relevant player in the aircraft engine manufacturers sector.


9. EQT Group

  • Website: eqtgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 30
  • LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a prominent investment firm founded in 1994, specializing in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Based in Stockholm, Sweden, EQT serves institutional investors by managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has made significant investments in the aviation industry, including the acquisition of EIS Aircraft Group in 2015, which focuses on civil and military aviation products and services. They also acquired Rolls-Royce Power Systems in 2006, further emphasizing their commitment to the aerospace sector. Additionally, EQT has invested in Unilode Aviation Solutions, which provides services related to aviation, showcasing their ongoing interest in the aviation market.


10. Ldc

  • Website: ldc.co.uk
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 15
  • LinkedIn: ldc

Lloyds Development Capital (Holdings) Limited, commonly known as LDC, is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. As part of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. They focus on helping management teams achieve their growth ambitions through investment and advisory services, fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success. Notably, LDC has made significant investments in the aerospace sector, acquiring companies such as MB Aerospace, which specializes in aircraft engine services, and AIM Altitude, which provides cabin systems and components for the aviation industry. These transactions highlight LDC's commitment to the aerospace and aircraft engine manufacturing sectors, reinforcing their relevance as an investor in this field.


11. 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, founded in 1908. The firm specializes in managing equity, fixed-income, and multi-asset portfolios, focusing on long-term growth opportunities for professional investors, including institutions and high-net-worth individuals. Baillie Gifford employs a research-driven approach to deliver sustainable returns. In recent years, they have made significant investments in companies that are relevant to the aerospace sector, such as Lilium, which is developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, and Merlin Labs, which focuses on autonomous flight technologies. Additionally, their investment in Relativity Space, a company that utilizes 3D printing for rocket manufacturing, highlights their interest in innovative technologies that could influence the future of aerospace, including aircraft engine development. Their diverse portfolio reflects a commitment to supporting advancements in technology that may have implications for the aircraft engine manufacturing industry.


12. 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 strong emphasis on sectors such as renewable energy and sustainable cities. Omnes Capital aims to provide capital and expertise to entrepreneurs and developers, fostering long-term partnerships to promote growth and sustainability in critical infrastructure projects. Notably, Omnes has made investments in companies relevant to the aerospace industry, such as Aero Negoce International, where they invested EUR11.7 million to support a fasteners distributor dedicated to the aerospace sector. Additionally, they have acquired companies like SOURIAU SAS and Porcher Industries, which may have connections to aerospace applications. These transactions highlight their involvement in sectors that intersect with aircraft manufacturing, although their primary focus remains on sustainability and infrastructure.


13. AP Ventures

  • Website: apventures.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2018
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: apventures

AP Ventures is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2018, specializing in early-stage investments in hydrogen and decarbonisation technologies. The firm aims to support startups that develop innovative solutions for sustainable energy, contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Notably, AP Ventures has invested in ZeroAvia, a company focused on hydrogen-powered aviation solutions. In 2021, they participated in multiple funding rounds for ZeroAvia, including Series A, B, and C, raising significant capital to support the development of hydrogen engines for commercial aircraft. Their latest investment in ZeroAvia, announced in September 2024, is part of a larger financing round aimed at advancing the certification and research of hydrogen engines, specifically the ZA2000 modular powertrain designed for larger aircraft applications. This involvement highlights AP Ventures' commitment to supporting innovative technologies in the aircraft engine sector.


14. Fondo Italiano d'Investimento SGR


Fondo Italiano d'Investimento SGR is an investment management firm based in Milan, Lombardy, Italy, specializing in private equity and funds of funds. Founded in 2010, the firm aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises in Italy by providing capital and investment strategies to enhance their competitiveness and drive sustainable development within the Italian economy. Among its notable transactions, Fondo Italiano d'Investimento has invested in Mecaer Aviation Group, which operates in the aviation sector, and Turbocoating, a company that specializes in protective coatings for gas turbine airfoils, essential for aircraft engines. These investments highlight the firm's engagement in the aerospace industry, particularly in areas related to aircraft engine manufacturing.


15. 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, founded in 1979 and based in Meudon, Île-De-France, France, is a corporate investor specializing in advanced electrical systems and devices for various sectors, including aerospace, defense, transportation, and security. With over 10,000 employees and a diverse portfolio, Thales has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its capabilities in the aerospace industry. Notably, in 2024, Thales acquired Cobham Aerospace Communications, which strengthens its position in aerospace technologies. Additionally, Thales has a history of acquiring companies that contribute to its technological advancements, such as Omnisys Engenharia and Visionix. These transactions reflect Thales's commitment to expanding its influence in the aerospace sector, making it a relevant investor in the aircraft engine manufacturers industry.


16. Aerospace Xelerated

  • Website: xelerated.aero
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2019
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: ukaeroaccel

Aerospace Xelerated is a corporate startup accelerator based in London, UK, founded in 2019. The firm focuses on supporting innovative companies within the aerospace industry by providing mentorship, investment opportunities, and corporate partnerships. They collaborate with various stakeholders, including government entities and corporate partners, to drive innovation and growth in the aerospace sector. Notably, Aerospace Xelerated has been involved in transactions such as Aiir Innovations, which specializes in AI-based software solutions for aircraft engine inspection, highlighting their engagement with companies that directly impact the aircraft engine manufacturing field. Other investments include NABLA Mobility, AireXpert, Flare Bright, and Amygda, although these are less directly related to aircraft engines. Overall, their focus on aerospace innovation positions them as a relevant investor in the aircraft engine manufacturing industry.


17. Groupe Crédit Agricole

  • Website: credit-agricole.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Montrouge, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1894
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 18
  • LinkedIn: credit-agricole

Groupe Crédit Agricole is a cooperative banking group based in Montrouge, Île-De-France, France, founded in 1894. It provides a wide range of financial services, including banking, insurance, and investment management, with a focus on mutuality and social responsibility. In recent years, Crédit Agricole has been involved in several significant transactions within the aerospace sector, particularly in financing companies like Embraer, which raised substantial amounts through post-IPO debt, totaling $1 billion across two transactions in 2022 and 2024. Additionally, they participated in debt financing for aviation leasing companies such as Avolon Holdings and Wings Capital Partners, indicating their active role in supporting the aviation industry. Their involvement in a secured portfolio financing facility for CDB Aviation further highlights their commitment to the aerospace sector, making them a relevant investor in the aircraft engine manufacturers context.


18. Bayern Kapital

  • Website: bayernkapital.de
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Landshut, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 27
  • LinkedIn: bayern-kapital-gmbh

Bayern Kapital is a venture capital firm based in Landshut, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1995. The firm specializes in providing investment and growth capital to innovative high-tech startups and scale-ups in Bavaria. With a focus on sectors such as life sciences and software, Bayern Kapital also supports its clients with financial resources and access to a network of industry experts. Notably, Bayern Kapital has participated in significant funding rounds for companies like Isar Aerospace, which is developing rocket engines and has completed multiple funding rounds, including a €155M Series C round aimed at ramping up production and preparing for operational flights. This involvement in aerospace technology positions Bayern Kapital as a relevant player in the aircraft engine manufacturing sector.


19. Kongsberg Maritime

  • Website: kongsberg.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Kongsberg, Buskerud, Norway
  • Founded year: 1814
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: kongsberg-maritime

Kongsberg Maritime, part of Kongsberg Gruppen, is a technology provider founded in 1814, specializing in advanced solutions across various sectors including defense, aerospace, maritime, and digital technologies. With a workforce of 5001-10000 employees, Kongsberg operates globally, emphasizing sustainable practices and collaboration with stakeholders. Notably, Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace has made significant strides in the aerospace sector, including the acquisition of Aerospace Industrial Maintenance Norway AS, which enhances its capabilities in military aircraft and helicopter maintenance. This acquisition, along with their focus on innovative technologies, positions Kongsberg as a relevant player in the aerospace industry, which encompasses aircraft engine manufacturing. Furthermore, their acquisition of NanoAvionics demonstrates their commitment to expanding their aerospace capabilities, particularly in satellite technology, which complements their defense and aerospace initiatives.



Aircraft Engine Manufacturers 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
SafranParis, Île-De-France, France10001+20059
AirbusBlagnac, Occitanie, France10001+20036
Tikehau CapitalParis, Île-De-France, France501-100020046
ShellLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+190720
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
LdcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200198115
Baillie GiffordEdinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)1001-5000190813
OmnesParis, Île-De-France, France51-20019998
AP VenturesLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-5020184
Fondo Italiano d'Investimento SGRMilan, Lombardy, Italy51-20020101
ThalesMeudon, Île-De-France, France10001+19795
Aerospace XeleratedLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)1-1020190
Groupe Crédit AgricoleMontrouge, Île-De-France, France10001+189418
Bayern KapitalLandshut, Bavaria, Germany11-50199527
Kongsberg MaritimeKongsberg, Buskerud, Norway5001-1000018141


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