Airbus Helicopters Canada (formerly called Eurocopter Canada) announced today that it will be adding a new production line at its Fort Erie, ON helicopter production facility, creating approximately 40 new high-skill manufacturing jobs.

Following a global competitive process the new production work has been awarded to Airbus Helicopters Canada by its parent company, Airbus Helicopters, based in Marignane, France. The Canadian facility will be making engine cowlings for the EC225. The EC225 is an aircraft sold in markets around the world and is known as the "workhorse" of the oil & gas industry, where it is used to transport workers to off-shore drilling rigs.

"With this multi-million investment - Airbus Helicopters is demonstrating its confidence in and commitment to Ontario and Canada," said Romain Trapp, chief executive officer of Airbus Helicopters Canada.

"This is very good news for the Niagara region," said Mr. Trapp. "This expansion of our composite department will also help protect the jobs already here as we continue to grow." Airbus Helicopters Canada is the largest employer in Fort Erie and an employer of choice in the Niagara region.

The Fort Erie facility is recognized as a Centre of Excellence for composite component manufacturing within Airbus Helicopters thanks to the expertise of its team and its competitive manufacturing capabilities. It produces several composite components for a variety of Airbus Helicopters' leading aircraft models which are sold internationally in more than 100 markets.

"This announcement recognizes Ontario as a good place to do business, particularly in advanced manufacturing," Mr. Trapp added.

"More than 50% of the new civil helicopters delivered in Canada over the last 10 years come from our facility. It demonstrates the success of our product range, the largest in the world, and how we have been able to customize it to the specifics of the Canadian market "noted Mr. Trapp. "We are proud of our contribution to the helicopter industry in Canada and around the world."