Japanese firms, Airbus sign deals

Japanese firms, Airbus sign deals

TOKYO: European aircraft maker Airbus said on Wednesday several Japanese companies, including Koito Manufacturing, will supply parts for the company's next-generation A380 super-jumbo programme.

Along with Koito, which is Japan's biggest manufacturer of automotive lighting equipment, Matsushita Avionics Systems and JAMCO Corp. have been selected as "preferred suppliers" for the 555-seat A380, Airbus said.

Sumitomo Precision Products will supply parts for the A380's landing gear and JAMCO Corp. will provide galley systems, Airbus said.

A total of 18 Japanese firms have now joined the A380 programme, with their revenue from the project expected eventually to be more than US$4.25 billion, Airbus said.

So far, Airbus has received orders and commitments for 129 A380s from 11 customers, the company said.

The aircraft is scheduled to enter service in 2006. -- AFP