Safran announced that it has entered into exclusive negotiations with Air Liquide to acquire the aeronautical oxygen and nitrogen activities of Air Liquide advanced Technologies, with the exception of the cryogenic activities related to naval applications.

Based in Sassenage (Isère, France), the aeronautical technologies activities of Air Liquide are focused primarily on oxygen and nitrogen equipment and systems. They employ 220 people and achieved a turnover of more than €40 million in 2022.

The Oxygen Systems business of Safran Aerosystems, which designs equipment to ensure the safety of crews and passengers on board civil and military aircraft as well as helicopters, currently has 500 employees spread over the United States and France.

This acquisition project would complement Safran Aerosystems' product range. In particular, On-Board Oxygen Generation Systems (OBOGS) will enable Safran to become a leading player through systems integration.

Sébastien Weber, CEO of Safran Aerosystems declared: "We are delighted with this project and the prospect of welcoming Air Liquide’s Oxygen and Nitrogen aeronautical technology teams. Our activities and know-how are very complementary. Together, we would bring ever more complete and efficient solutions to the market."

The proposed transaction is subject to the information and consultation procedure with the relevant employee representative bodies of Air Liquide advanced Technologies and of Safran Aerosystems, as well as the usual regulatory approvals. The transaction is expected to be completed in the beginning of 2024.