Safran expands manufacturing and MRO in Malaysia

Safran Landing Systems has inaugurated an expanded manufacturing and heat sink refurbishment facility in Sendayan, Malaysia, along with a new carbon brake maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) centre in Nilai.

The investments aim to meet the growing demand from around 100 airline operators across the Asia-Pacific region, supporting Airbus A320, A321 and A350 aircraft, Boeing 737, 777 and 787 aircraft, and ATR aircraft.

The €134 million expansion of the Sendayan facility adds 7,000 square metres of advanced manufacturing space, including a new textile line, carbonisation furnaces and advanced machining equipment. The facility currently employs 160 people and is expected to double its carbon brake disc production capacity by 2028.

The new 1,000 square metre MRO centre in Nilai represents an investment of €2 million. It is strategically located close to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport and 20 kilometres from Sendayan, which supplies it with new and refurbished carbon brake discs.

“Malaysia plays a strategic role in Safran Landing Systems’ global industrial footprint. Our investments in Sendayan and Nilai, combined with our local MRO partner network, reflect our commitment to supporting Asia Pacific’s long-term aviation growth by providing faster end-to-end wheels & brakes services, closer to our customers. They also demonstrate our dedication to developing local talent and reducing our environmental footprint,” said François Bastin, CEO, Safran Landing Systems.

As its operations expand, Safran Landing Systems aims to increase its Malaysian workforce to 220 employees by 2030. The additional workforce will support its industrial and MRO activities, strengthen customer support and help develop local skills and expertise.

“Safran has been present in Malaysia for more than 50 years, and the relationship has moved from supply and service into manufacturing, and now into maintenance, repair and overhaul. Expanding an existing plant and opening a new one in the same year is a strong confidence in Malaysia. These investments will create long-term value, develop high-skilled employment and further strengthen Malaysia’s aerospace capabilities. MIDA congratulates Safran Landing Systems on both significant milestones and stands ready to support the company’s continued growth in Malaysia,” said Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA).

The Sendayan site has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 60% between 2018 and 2025 through the use of low-carbon local energy sources and the recovery of process gases. By 2030, additional sustainable energy capacity is expected to further reduce emissions.

The investments reflect Safran Landing Systems' strategy to expand its presence in Asia-Pacific. The company also inaugurated an expanded landing gear MRO facility in Singapore in September 2026.