Mexico’s Aerospace Industry Climbs Higher, Powered by Regional Clusters
Mexico’s aerospace industry continues to gain altitude, driven by regional clusters that have evolved into specialized manufacturing, design, and maintenance hubs. With more than 350 industrial facilities operating across 19 states and over 60,000 skilled workers employed, the sector is rapidly maturing into a cornerstone of high-value manufacturing in the country.
In 2024 alone, foreign direct investment (FDI) in aerospace equipment manufacturing totaled $343 million. The country has increasingly specialized in the manufacturing of highly complex components, including aerostructures, landing gear, propulsion systems, cabin interiors, precision machining, and electrical systems. Every piece produced across Mexico’s aerospace sector connects the nation more deeply to the heart of global aviation.
Over the past decade, global aerospace has undergone transformative technological change. The introduction of glass cockpit avionics, composite materials, lighter engines, and ultra-large airliners has heightened complexity in manufacturing and logistics. Mexican aerospace companies have responded by strengthening their capabilities, integrating into global supply chains, and executing increasingly complex projects across various aircraft programs.
Approximately 80% of Mexico’s aerospace facilities focus on manufacturing, 11% specialize in Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO), and 9% work on engineering and design. These operations are organized into regional clusters, each mastering unique strengths while collaborating to deliver integrated solutions to OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers around the world.
Aerospace Manufacturing in Mexico: Diving into Regional Specialization
Let’s dive into the capabilities of each cluster:
Baja California, home to Mexico’s oldest aerospace cluster, hosts aund 100 companies. With a legacy spanning over 50 years, the region is known for its innovation in aircraft systems integration and interior design. It boasts capabilities in precision machining, electrical and hydraulic systems, interiors, and MRO on engine parts. Local firms continue to expand, receiving higher-value projects from parent companies abroad.
Meanwhile, Chihuahua has become a powerhouse with five OEMs and over 40 certified aerospace operations. The state supports a wide range of activities, including high-precision machining, harness manufacturing, thermal and chemical treatments, and production of seats, slides, rafts, and aerostructures. Industry leaders such as Safran, Textron Aviation, and Honeywell have operations in this state.
While Sonora lacks OEMs, it has built a strong base of over 60 Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers. The state’s standout asset lies in its advanced special processes. From die and sand casting to heat treatment, anodizing, and plasma spray, Sonora’s manufacturing ecosystem supports turbine and engine component production.
Querétaro has emerged as a strategic center since major OEMs like Bombardier and Safran established operations over a decade ago. Today, the Querétaro Aerocluster includes 33 members, encompassing private companies, academic institutions, and government bodies. The region has become a leader in complex machining, composite components, propulsion MRO, and landing gear systems, backed by tailored workforce development and infrastructure investment.
Nuevo León, with operations centered in Monterrey , leverages its industrial base and highly educated workforce to support aerospace activities. The region focuses on metal mechanics, part and component manufacturing, and MRO services, benefiting from Monterrey’s logistics and engineering capacity.
As Mexico’s aerospace sector continues growing at double-digit annual rates, industry leaders stress the need for increased investment in education and workforce development. Regional clusters and government institutions are aligning training programs, research capabilities, and innovation policies with the demands of a technologically advanced, global industry to sustain momentum.
From Baja California to Querétaro, Mexico is charting a course for higher-value aerospace production, transforming regional strengths into a national competitive advantage.
