Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Bandar Alkhorayef, engaged in discussions with Stefano Pontecorvo, chairman of Leonardo, in Milan. The talks aimed to expand their partnership, focusing on localizing helicopter component manufacturing in Saudi Arabia.
The discussions centered on producing aircraft structures, propellers, fins, and electronic flight systems within the Kingdom. Leonardo, an Italian firm in aerospace, defense, and security, has been active in Saudi Arabia for over 50 years, aligning its efforts with Vision 2030 to diversify the economy.
Local production of helicopter parts is intended to boost job creation, facilitate technology transfer, and establish a domestic supply chain in aviation. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to improve Saudi Arabia’s capabilities in maintenance, repair, overhaul (MRO) services, and manufacturing spare parts for engines, drones, and navigation systems.
The aviation sector is expected to contribute SAR11.4 billion to Saudi Arabia’s GDP by 2030. Alkhorayef’s visit to Leonardo highlights the Kingdom’s dedication to enhancing its aviation industry and utilizing global expertise to achieve its economic ambitions.
