La aeronautical industry in Andalusia continues to demonstrate its strategic role in the economic and social development of the region, with a contribution of 1.925 million euros and the generation of 19.312 jobs, according to the report prepared by the consultancy firm PwC for TEDAE, the association that represents more than 100 companies in the defense, security, aeronautics and space sectors. This report highlights that the Andalusian aeronautical sector represents 15,72% of the industrial GDP of the community and 7,72% of industrial employment.
Andalusia is the second most important autonomous community in Spain for the aeronautics, defense, security and space sectors, second only to the Community of Madrid and ahead of regions such as the Basque Country, Catalonia and Castilla-La Mancha. This position is due to the strength of its aeronautical industry, both in the civil and military fields, which makes it a key part of the regional productive fabric.
Economic impact and employment
La aeronautical industry It leads the economic impact of the sectors analysed, contributing 1.925 billion euros to Andalusia's GDP. Its capacity to generate employment is also notable, with 19.312 direct jobs, equivalent to 7,72% of industrial employment in the region. This performance underlines its role as one of the main drivers of economic and technological growth in Andalusia.
The defence and security sector is second in terms of economic contribution, contributing 1.675 billion euros to regional GDP and 15.928 jobs, representing 6,36% of industrial employment. The space industry, although smaller, has also shown significant growth, with 77 million euros of economic impact and 1.118 jobs generated.
TEDAE President Ricardo Martí has highlighted Andalusia's role as a "key region" in the development of the defence, security, aeronautics and space industries. “It has proven to be an epicentre of talent and development, making it a fundamental pillar for the growth and competitiveness of these sectors at a national and international level. Andalusia is, without a doubt, a indispensable engine for the future of our industries", he stressed. This recognition is supported by national figures, where the industries integrated in TEDAE contribute 19.688 million euros to the Spanish GDP and generate 215.607 jobs. The communities of Madrid, Andalusia, Catalonia, the Basque Country, Castilla-La Mancha and Castilla y León account for 81% of these jobs.
Success factors of the aeronautical industry in Andalusia
The Andalusian aeronautical sector has managed to consolidate itself thanks to various factors, such as the Presence of important multinational and local companies, the existence of research and development centres and a highly qualified workforce. Synergies between the academic and industrial spheres have also been fundamental for the development of the sector. In addition, the industry Andalusia benefits from its participation in European and global projects, especially in the development of new technologies and advanced aviation systems. These projects have allowed Andalusia to position itself as a benchmark in the manufacture of aeronautical components and in the research of sustainable technological solutions.
Despite its good performance, the aeronautical industry in Andalusia faces important challenges, such as the need to adapt to technological and regulatory changes, the transition towards more sustainable aviation and the international competition. However, these difficulties also represent opportunities to innovate and diversify the range of products and services. One of the main challenges is to encourage investment in R&D&I to maintain the competitiveness of the sector. Public-private collaboration and the support of regional and national administrations will be key to overcoming these challenges and continuing to drive the development of the industry.
With its significant contribution to regional GDP and its ability to generate quality employment, Andalusia's aeronautical industry is well positioned to continue growing in the coming years. Institutional support, innovation and commitment to sustainability will be decisive in consolidating its position as one of the most important strategic sectors in the region and the country. The PwC report highlights the importance of continuing to develop policies that promote investment and the strengthening of the industry. In this context, Andalusia is not only a benchmark at a national level, but also a model for other European regions in terms of the development and management of the aeronautical sector.
