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www.AviationPros.com 13 In one new production building, I was shown the composite gear door produc- tion for an Airbus A400M, and there is a line dedicated entirely to gear doors for the A350 where most modern compos- ite sandwich structures are bonded and riveted to metallic hinges and locking mechanisms. Many aerospace companies subcontract work to Daher, like doors, control surfaces, and entire subsections. In Tarbes even the front end of the Airbus A380 is built. Composite parts are built in a brand-new building which was pur- posely developed for robotic production of composite layups. The whole process is highly automated and robotic arms with high precision cut the carbon filaments and place the woven tapes of material in place and apply resin automatically where needed. The level of automation in Tarbes is high, but there is still an army of highly skilled bench workers which manufacture — in a traditional way — metal parts, finishing them with files and checking bend angles with gauges. CENTRE DE MAINTENANCE The Daher production complex in Tarbes has a proprietary paint building and a large hangar dedicated to maintenance, repair, and retrofit. In a busy "Centre de Maintenance" I not only observed seasoned technicians but trainees from around the world being trained in aviation MRO skills. Attached to the hangar is even the training facility ... but this is another story. Beside the regular maintenance on TBM products there were other piston aircraft of all genres. Daher activity in this MRO and retrofit field is much bigger than initially expected. In fact, in front of the hangar sat one of the oldest TBMs around which was waiting for a complete refurbishing. MARINO BORIC graduated with a university degree as an aeronautic engineer, and acquired degrees in business development/ trade and commerce and in journalism. He is a civil and military pilot and has built experimental aircraft. As a journalist, he specializes in aviation and propulsion and travels worldwide, flight-testing UL, LSA, Experimental, and certified aircraft. He is writing for U.S., European, and Chinese media companies. KGS Electronics Since 1960, operators worldwide have trusted Consolidated Aircraft Supply for their accessory overhauls. Factory trained and authorized by K.G.S. Electronics. Wherever you are worldwide, no matter what aircraft you operate, our extensive spares inventory is ready to solve your AOG needs. Call NOW for competitive pricing. 631.981.7700 • Fax: 631.981.7706 Fax: 631.981.7706 • Toll Free USA: 800.422.6300 55 Raynor Ave, Ronkonkoma, NY 11779 USA • consol1291@aol.com www.consolac.com Factory trained and authorized by: AIRCRAFT SUPPLY CO., INC. Delivering On Time, At A Price That Flies True. FAA GI1R167K EASA 4346 Major credit cards accepted Quality Experience, Turntime AviationPros.com/company/10226001