EPI manufacturing capabilities to include serial assembly lines, establishing it as a regional leader in aircraft component production.
EPI, the precision engineering backbone of the UAE’s aerospace and defence industry, has decided to expand its manufacturing capabilities to support the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The announcement was made on the side-lines of the Global Aerospace Summit, which takes place, virtually from Abu Dhabi.
EPI will machine aluminium trailing edge ribs for use in the 787-commercial aircraft. The serial assembly lines will be an extension to the Abu Dhabi facility, with the processed parts additionally going through EPI’s surface treatment plant launched last year.
Established in April 2019, the plant is part of an industrial collaboration agreement between Tawazun Economic Council (Tawazun), Boeing Defense, Space & Security (Boeing) and EPI, to build a chemical processing plant that would ramp up its existing production capabilities, and move beyond machining and into aircraft assembly for aerospace Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
Speaking on the occasion, Khalid Al Breiki, President – Mission Support, EDGE, said: “In recent years, the UAE has significantly amplified its domestic manufacturing capabilities and the opportunities facilitated by Tawazun – between Boeing and EPI – contributes to this rapidly growing infrastructure. Backed by our industry-leading expertise in specialised equipment and engagements with other leading OEMs, we are proud to expand our support for the 787 programme and are focused on delivering high-quality components for Boeing and its customers.”
He added: “Our continued relationship with Boeing is symbolic of the partnerships we build and value. Today’s announcement expanding EPI’s manufacturing capabilities is an encouraging indicator for the region’s aerospace and defence industries and we look forward to exploring similar opportunities in the coming years.”
“This contract with EPI will expand the capability and capacity of Boeing’s global supply chain while supporting further development of the UAE’s aerospace industry,” said Bernard Dunn, president of Boeing Middle East, North Africa and Turkey. “Adding EPI as a new supplier for the 787 Dreamliner, is a prime example of our mutually beneficial approach to engagement in the UAE.”
