GE Aviation opens second composites Factory

In addition to jet engine components, Ellisville will manufacture the transcowl, a component of the thrust reverser, which is located in the rear of the nacelle for Airbus's A320neo.

The specific type of composite material that will be made at Ellisville is known as polymer matrix composites (PMCs). PMCs are made of carbon fiber fabric and polymer resin and fabricated by using advanced technology in manufacturing processes and equipment.

Since announcing plans in 2011 to locate in Ellisville, GE has worked closely with the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA). This relationship was established in 2006 when GE announced plans to open its Batesville facility.

"I am confident GE Aviation will enjoy the same success in Ellisville that it has in Batesville," said Mississippi Development Authority Executive Director Brent Christensen. "I am glad the Mississippi Development Authority was able to assist GE Aviation in expanding into Jones County, and we appreciate our partners in Ellisville and Jones County who have worked so hard to help make this new facility a reality."

GE develops and produces the world's most advanced composite components for jet engines and aircraft systems. Composite components provide greater durability and engine weight savings, which translate into better aircraft fuel efficiency and reduced maintenance and replacement costs.

To date, CFM has logged orders for more than 4,500 LEAP engines. This record backlog will ensure a stable workload at Ellisville for years to come. The Ellisville plant is also expected to produce other composite components in the future for GE's newest commercial jet engines and aircraft systems.

GE Aviation generated revenues of $20 billion in 2012. The company also has the largest and fastest-growing installed base of jet engines in commercial aviation and a global services network to support them. GE Aviation employs approximately 40,000 people and operates more than 80 facilities around the world.

The company invests $1 billion annually in jet propulsion research and development (R&D) programs. This long tradition of commitment to new technology has helped GE maintains its leadership position within the industry with a list of "firsts" in both military and commercial jet propulsion, tracing back to 1942 with America's first jet engine.

GE Aviation, an operating unit of GE, is a world-leading provider of jet, turboprop and turboshaft engines, components and integrated systems for commercial, military, business and general aviation aircraft. GE Aviation has a global service network to support these offerings.

GE Aviation