Airbus has opened a new customer support centre in Johannesburg to help strengthen its local presence and support the growth of the African ecosystem, it says.

According to a media statement, it will serve as a hub for customers in the region and its new office “will provide tailored support and enhance operational efficiency”.

It also says the customer support centre will drive the development of existing local capabilities and will ensure access to maintenance and training resources while maintaining a collaborative ecosystem in the region.

Laurent Negre, VP Customer Services Africa and Middle East at Airbus says: “With the rapid expansion of the latest generation aircraft on the continent, Africa requires additional dedicated support and skills to meet the increasing demand for intra-African and international connectivity.”

“We are proud to open this new office to increase our proximity to customers while continuing to support the development of solutions for Africa, in Africa, and by Africa.”

The company adds that according to its recent Global Market Forecast, it predicts that commercial demand for the African continent will reach 1460 passenger and freight aircraft by 2043, comprising 1210 single-aisle aircraft and 250 widebody aircraft.

Additionally, it says Airbus’ Global Services Forecast estimates that Africa will need to introduce 15 000 additional pilots, 20 000 mechanics to meet the surge in air travel demand.