Woodward will begin production of wing spoiler actuators for the Airbus A350 in November 2028, the aerospace component manufacturer announced. The actuators will ship directly to Airbus assembly facilities.
Wing spoiler actuators control the movable surfaces on aircraft wings that help manage lift and drag during flight operations. The A350 wide-body aircraft uses multiple spoiler systems across its wings for precise flight control.
The production start aligns with Airbus's ongoing A350 program expansion. The manufacturer has increased A350 production rates to meet airline demand for fuel-efficient long-range aircraft. Current A350 backlog stands at over 500 aircraft across the -900 and -1000 variants.
Woodward outlined 7-12% sales growth targets alongside a $1.8 billion share repurchase plan, signaling confidence in aerospace sector recovery. The company supplies flight control systems, engine components, and actuation systems to major aircraft manufacturers.
European aerospace manufacturing has rebounded from pandemic-era disruption. Airbus delivered 735 commercial aircraft in 2023 and targets higher production across its single-aisle and wide-body programs. The A350 competes with Boeing's 787 Dreamliner in the twin-engine wide-body market.
Supply chain stability remains critical for aircraft manufacturers ramping production. Component suppliers like Woodward must align manufacturing capacity with airframer schedules to prevent bottlenecks. The actuator production launch demonstrates supplier readiness for increased A350 output.
The A350 program launched in 2006 and entered service in 2015. Airlines operate over 500 A350s globally, with major customers including Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific. The aircraft offers 25% lower operating costs than older wide-body models.
Woodward's manufacturing footprint includes facilities in the US and Europe, supporting both American and European aircraft programs. The company employs over 9,000 workers across aerospace and industrial divisions.