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