Grace Ashiru
Airbus has appointed Gabriel Semelas as President of Airbus in Africa and the Middle East, effective January 1, 2025.
Gabriel Semelas brings over 24 years of experience in the aeronautical industry, having held key senior executive roles. He returns to Airbus from his current position as Chief Commercial and Financial Officer at Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug GmbH in Germany. Prior to that, he led the contracts team for Airbus’ Commercial Aircraft business in Africa and the Middle East.
In his new role, Gabriel Semelas will oversee Airbus’ operations across all the company’s divisions in the Africa and Middle East region, a key area for Airbus’ strategic development. Wouter Van Wersch, Executive Vice President International at Airbus, said: “Gabriel’s extensive background in the aeronautical industry, coupled with his proven leadership skills, makes him the ideal candidate to lead Airbus’ operations in Africa and the Middle East. We are confident that under his leadership, we will continue to strengthen our presence and partnerships in this strategically important region.”
“I am honoured to take on this responsibility at such a pivotal time for Airbus in Africa and the Middle East. I look forward to working with our talented teams and partners to drive growth and innovation in this dynamic market,” said Gabriel Semelas.
Gabriel Semelas succeeds Mikail Houari, who has played a crucial role in expanding Airbus’ footprint in the region over the past years.
With a significant presence throughout the Middle East and Africa, Airbus employs more than 3,300 people and remains committed to delivering industry-leading products and services to customers across the region.
The company actively sources supplies and components from local companies and provides comprehensive technical support to its partners. Airbus has also launched several initiatives aimed at developing skills and talent in the region, nurturing the future leaders of the aerospace industry.
Airbus opens Customer Support Centre in Johannesburg
Airbus has announced the opening of its new Customer Support Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa. This newly established centre will contribute to strengthening Airbus’ local presence and supporting the growth of the African ecosystem.
Serving as a hub for customers in the region, the new office will provide tailored support and enhance operational efficiency.
The Customer Support Centre will drive the development of existing local capabilities, ensuring access to maintenance and training resources while fostering a stronger, more collaborative ecosystem in the region. By supporting the growth of the local aviation industry, Airbus aims to empower airlines and reinforce their autonomy. This will not only benefit airlines but the entire industry and local workforce.
“With the rapid expansion of the latest generation aircraft on the continent, Africa requires additional dedicated support and skills to meet the increasing demand for intra-African and international connectivity,” says Laurent Negre, VP of Customer Services Africa and Middle East at Airbus. “We are proud to open this new office to increase our proximity to customers while continuing to support the development of solutions for Africa, in Africa, and by Africa.”
Airbus’ most recent Global Market Forecast predicts that commercial demand for the African continent will reach 1,460 passenger and freight aircraft by 2043, comprising 1,210 single-aisle aircraft and 250 widebody aircraft. Additionally, Airbus’ Global Services Forecast estimates that Africa will need to introduce 15,000 additional pilots and 20,000 mechanics to meet the surge in air travel demand.
