French Safran Group open to new aircraft engine unit in Greece

French industrial giant Safran Group, is reportedly examining the installation of a unit to repair, maintain and rebuild airplane and helicopter engines in Greece.

Government sources say discussions are at an advanced stage, though additional efforts are needed to ensure a successful outcome. Should this happen, it would mean a significant investment in a labor-intensive field which would generate new employment opportunities in Greece.

The interest of the French group in Greece was rekindled during the recent visits of top Greek and French officials to Paris and Athens respectively, taking part in the accompanying business missions. However it is also looking at other countries in the eastern Mediterranean for this investment, weighing the needs of its clients, mainly carriers that use its engines as well as other electrical and mechanical equipment it produces.

Safran Group is also eyeing these services for the defence sector, where it is already very active, including working with France's Naval Group, which will build the Belharra frigates Athens is pondering acquiring.