Efficiency, precision, and adaptability define modern aviation manufacturing. Aircraft manufacturers like Airbus are increasingly integrating automation and digitalization into their production processes to meet growing demand and tackle challenges such as skills shortages and rising quality requirements.
At ARTS Group, we support aerospace OEMs, suppliers, and MROs with highly specialized project teams. Our aerospace experts are deployed directly at customer sites, where they work on complex tasks across aircraft programs like the A380 and A350. Their contribution is not limited to structural assembly—they also support digital process integration, quality assurance, and lean optimization. Here’s a look at several recent projects that illustrate how our teams help advance aviation manufacturing.
Some Of Arts' Aviation Manufacturing Projects At Airbus:
Structural Modifications on the Airbus A380 Final Assembly Line in Toulouse
The A380, Airbus’ flagship long-haul aircraft, presented several structural challenges during its development. One of our project teams in Toulouse was brought in after test flights revealed that certain skin fields were too thinly dimensioned. This required an in-situ modification during the final assembly process—no small task, considering the scale and complexity of the aircraft.
Our team replaced the affected skin fields and later handled additional repairs following further test flights. Cracked seat rails, damaged piping in the air-conditioning system, faulty valves, and floor panel issues were all addressed. In parallel, residual work from the Hamburg site—such as the installation of wastewater and fresh water pipes—was completed in Toulouse. This flexible deployment of structural teams illustrates how ARTS Group supports customers with focused production support services tailored to specific programs and locations.
CFRP Expertise in Stade: Automation Meets Composite Technology
Stade is Airbus’ key site for carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) technology. CFRP plays an essential role in modern aircraft construction, offering high stiffness and low weight—both crucial for fuel efficiency and structural integrity. However, processing CFRP requires a different skill set than working with traditional metals.
Our structural mechanics specialists in Stade support the production of vertical stabilizers for the Airbus fleet. These components are manufactured through highly automated processes. The ARTS team ensures the correct handling of CFRP materials and manages repairs, including on floor panels made partly from CFRP and installed later in Toulouse. Due to the sensitivity of CFRP laminates, repairs must be executed using precise, non-invasive techniques to avoid compromising material integrity.
In aviation manufacturing, especially when dealing with composite materials, it’s critical to work with professionals who understand the specific behavior of each material class. That’s why Airbus relies on ARTS Group for structural repair and production support involving CFRP components.
Advanced Drilling and Structural Assembly on the Airbus A350 in Hamburg
On the A350 program, automated drilling systems are a core part of the digital production strategy. In Hamburg, our team worked on bracket installation using semi-automatic drilling units (ADUs). These machines deliver consistently accurate hole placements for both small and large diameters—critical for the precision required in aircraft assembly.
The brackets serve as structural connectors between fuselage sections. Our technicians bonded them directly to the CFRP structure using a two-component adhesive. Unlike riveting or bolting, bonding avoids weakening the structure and eliminates corrosion risks. This is only possible with composite materials and requires deep knowledge of bonding techniques.
Beyond assembly tasks, our team also handled order documentation via the SAP Shop Floor Interface system. Every work step—from bracket attachment to issue reporting—was logged digitally. Our internal quality inspectors used limit plug gauges to verify the accuracy of drill holes, ensuring compliance with Airbus’ strict quality standards.
Integrating automation and digital tools like ADUs and SAP interfaces is essential in modern aviation manufacturing. It reduces errors, accelerates production, and improves traceability—key factors in high-volume programs like the A350.
Lean Management and Team-Based Processes
Efficiency in aviation manufacturing depends not just on tools and technology, but also on how teams are organized. At Airbus and within ARTS Group, lean management principles are deeply embedded.
Our teams work in clearly defined work packages, but always with a shared goal: delivering the aircraft on time and to specification. Tools and materials are stored according to 5S principles, reducing search time and avoiding waste. When questions arise, team members consult each other directly—supporting a culture of knowledge exchange and problem-solving.
This approach ensures that even under pressure, quality remains consistent and timelines are met. For OEMs like Airbus, lean operations are not optional—they’re fundamental. For ARTS Group, they’re part of everyday project execution.
Global Support for Aviation Manufacturing Projects
ARTS Group’s project teams are deployed internationally, supporting aircraft OEMs, suppliers, and MRO providers with structural, mechanical, and electrical expertise. Our specialists work on structural assembly, mechanical systems, avionics installation, and repair projects.
For example, our Mobile Aircraft Maintenance Crews have supported retrofit programs for the A330 and A380, including seat rail replacements and door modifications. We also handle Service Bulletin (SB) implementations—critical for keeping aircraft fleets compliant and airworthy.
Our support model is flexible: we offer temporary staffing, work package solutions, or full project outsourcing — on-site or remotely. All processes are ISO 9001 and EN 9100 certified, ensuring high quality and regulatory compliance across all aviation manufacturing engagements.
Automation and Digitalization as Drivers of Efficiency
The aviation industry is under pressure to deliver more aircraft in shorter timeframes while maintaining safety, performance, and quality. Airbus predicts a need for over 27,800 new aircraft by 2030, doubling the global fleet. At the same time, qualified personnel are retiring, and aerospace supply chains remain under strain. Automation and digitalization are no longer optional—they are essential.
ARTS Group supports this transformation by embedding its teams into customer operations. Whether it’s operating advanced drilling systems, digitalizing workflows in SAP, or implementing lean production principles on the shop floor, our experts ensure that aviation manufacturing becomes faster, more reliable, and more adaptable.
Shaping Aviation Manufacturing with Precision, Experience and Global Reach
To stay ahead in aviation manufacturing, new skills and ways of thinking are required for new materials like CFRP, automated production methods and digital process control. At ARTS Group, we bring that expertise to our clients.
If you’re looking for a partner who understands the operational and technological demands of aviation manufacturing, ARTS Group is ready to support your next project. From structural assembly to process optimization—on-site or remote—we deliver measurable value where it matters. Contact us now.