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The aircraft engine manufacturing industry in Europe represents a vital sector, primarily focused on developing high-performance engines for commercial, military, and private aviation. Major players like Rolls-Royce and Safran offer a range of products, including turbofan engines, military propulsion systems, and components for aircraft assembly. This industry's future is characterized by strong growth, driven by a shift toward sustainable aviation technologies and alternative fuels, with significant investments in hydrogen and electric propulsion systems. With Europe's ambitious environmental goals, companies are now reimagining what aircraft engines could look like in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ next decade.

Across Europe, a mixture of corporate entities, venture capital firms, and private equity groups play a crucial role in funding Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft engine manufacturing sector. The 17 investors featured encompass established giants like Safran and Siemens, as well as nimble venture capital players such as AP Ventures. Many of Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se firms boast extensive experience and sizable operations, with investment counts indicating strong engagement. This group, founded between 1847 and 2018, collectively made numerous deals in 2024, reflecting a vibrant investment ecosystem in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry.

Top 17 Aircraft Engine Manufacturing Investors in Europe

1. European Innovation Council (EIC)

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 57
• LinkedIn:

The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a public entity based in Brussels, Belgium, established to support innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe. Founded in 1958, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC offers various funding programs, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC Accelerator and EIC Pathfinder, aimed at helping startups and SMEs develop and scale Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir technologies. In recent years, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC has been involved in significant transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, notably funding companies like Heart Aerospace, which is developing a hybrid-electric aeroplane, and Maeve Aerospace, focused on a full-electric regional airliner. These investments highlight Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC's role in promoting advancements in aircraft technology, making it a key player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft engine manufacturing landscape.

2. Safran

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 9
• LinkedIn:

Safran is a prominent aerospace manufacturer and defense contractor based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France. Founded in 2005, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ company specializes in aircraft equipment, propulsion systems, and defense technologies, serving a diverse clientele that includes aircraft manufacturers and military organizations. Safran has been actively involved in strategic acquisitions to enhance its capabilities in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector. Notably, in 2017, Safran acquired Zodiac Aerospace for approximately $9.06 billion, a move aimed at strengÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ning its position in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace market. More recently, in 2024, Safran Aircraft Engines acquired Component Repair Technologies, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r expanding its footprint in aircraft engine manufacturing. The company is committed to innovation and sustainability, focusing on providing solutions that enhance safety and operational efficiency in aviation and defense sectors.

3. Airbus

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Blagnac, Occitanie, France
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn:

Airbus SE, founded in 2003 and headquartered in Blagnac, Occitanie, France, is a leading aerospace manufacturer known for its innovative solutions in commercial aircraft, helicopters, defense systems, and space technology. With over 10,000 employees, Airbus serves a global customer base, including airlines and military organizations. In 2024, Airbus has made six investments, notably in ZeroAvia, where Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y co-led a Series C funding round aimed at supporting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ development of hydrogen-powered engines for larger commercial aircraft. This investment aligns with Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to sustainability and advancing aerospace technology. Additionally, Airbus has made strategic acquisitions, such as Vector Aerospace Corp and Satair A/S, enhancing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir capabilities in aircraft parts and services, which are crucial for Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft engine manufacturing sector.

4. Tikehau Capital

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 501-1000
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn:

Tikehau Capital is an investment management firm based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, specializing in alternative asset management. Founded in 2004, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ firm offers a diverse range of services, including private debt, private equity, real assets, and capital markets strategies. Tikehau Capital serves a variety of clients, including institutional and private investors, as well as SMEs seeking tailored financing solutions to support growth and sustainability initiatives. Notably, Tikehau has made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, including a $55 million investment in Mecachrome France, a company involved in aerospace manufacturing, and debt financing for Daher, a key player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry. They also participated in a post-IPO equity round for Latecoere, which is involved in aerospace manufacturing. Their recent negotiations to acquire Sabena Technics, a company specializing in aeronautical maintenance, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r highlight Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector. Additionally, Tikehau's investment in Nexteam Group, a precision mechanics and machining company, indicates Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir interest in supporting companies that may contribute to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft engine manufacturing supply chain.

5. Bgf

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 53
• LinkedIn:

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm founded in 2011, based in London, England. The firm specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ UK and Ireland. BGF addresses Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ funding gap in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in several companies relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, including an £8.5 million investment in Independent Forgings & Alloys, which specializes in aerospace and industrial forging. Additionally, BGF has invested in Polar Technology Management Group, a specialist engineering company, and Prodrive Composites, which focuses on motorsport engineering and carbon fibre composites. These transactions highlight BGF's engagement with companies that have potential applications in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft engine manufacturing industry.

6. Shell

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1907
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 20
• LinkedIn:

Shell plc is a multinational oil and gas company based in London, England, that operates in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ energy and chemicals sectors. Founded in 1907, Shell provides essential products such as fuels, lubricants, and chemical solutions to businesses and consumers globally. In recent years, Shell has expanded its investment portfolio to include innovative companies in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation sector, notably ZeroAvia, which focuses on hydrogen-powered aircraft engines. Shell participated in multiple funding rounds for ZeroAvia, including a Series B investment of $35 million in December 2021 and several Series A investments totaling over $50 million in 2021. Additionally, Shell's investment in FORGE Hydrocarbons, aimed at producing renewable diesel and jet fuels, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r demonstrates its commitment to sustainable aviation fuels, which are crucial for Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ future of aircraft engine manufacturing.

7. EQT Group

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 30
• LinkedIn:

EQT Group is a prominent private equity investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. The firm specializes in a diverse range of investment strategies, including private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. EQT serves institutional investors by providing expertise in managing varied investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Among Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir notable transactions, EQT acquired EIS Aircraft Group in 2015, which focuses on products and services for civil and military aviation, highlighting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation sector. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir acquisition of Rolls-Royce Power Systems in 2006 furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r emphasizes Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir involvement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft engine manufacturing context. OÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r relevant transactions include Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of TitanX Engine Cooling, which, while primarily focused on engine cooling solutions, indicates Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir broader interest in engine-related technologies. Overall, EQT Group's investment activities reflect a significant presence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation and aircraft engine manufacturing industries.

8. 3i Group plc

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1945
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn:

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity firm founded in 1945, specializing in private equity and infrastructure investments. The firm focuses on providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, helping Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m grow sustainably. With a strong international presence and a diverse portfolio, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Notably, 3i has been involved in significant transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, including investments in Collins Aerospace, which is a major player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft engine and aerospace systems market, and Pilatus Business Aircraft Ltd, known for its aircraft manufacturing. These transactions highlight 3i's engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry, reinforcing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir relevance as an investor in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft engine manufacturing space.

9. Ldc

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 15
• LinkedIn:

Lloyds Development Capital (Holdings) Limited (LDC) is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. As part of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. They focus on helping management teams achieve Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir growth ambitions through investment and advisory services, fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success. Notably, LDC has made several key acquisitions in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, including MB Aerospace in 2007, which specializes in aerospace engine services, and AIM Altitude in 2010, a company that provides cabin solutions for Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry. These transactions highlight LDC's commitment to investing in companies that play a crucial role in aircraft engine manufacturing and related services.

10. Omnes

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 8
• LinkedIn:

Omnes Capital is a private equity firm based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in investment management with a focus on sectors such as renewable energy and sustainable cities. Omnes emphasizes long-term partnerships to foster growth and sustainability in critical infrastructure projects. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have made investments in companies relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, including Aero Negoce International, where Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y invested EUR11.7 million to support a fasteners distributor dedicated to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have acquired companies like SOURIAU SAS and Porcher Industries, which may have connections to aerospace applications. These transactions highlight Omnes' engagement in sectors that intersect with aircraft manufacturing, although Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir primary focus remains outside of this niche.

11. Siemens

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
• Founded year: 1847
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 11
• LinkedIn:

Siemens AG is a leading technology conglomerate based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany, specializing in industrial automation, energy solutions, rail transport, and health technology. Founded in 1847, Siemens operates globally with approximately 320,000 employees and significant revenue generation. Notably, Siemens has made strategic investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of an 85% stake in Materials Solutions Ltd. in 2016, a company focused on 3D printing for gas turbines and aerospace systems. This acquisition enhances Siemens' capabilities in additive manufacturing, which is crucial for modern aircraft engine production. Additionally, Siemens has been involved in various oÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r transactions, although Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y are less relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft engine sector. Overall, Siemens' activities in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace domain position it as a significant player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft engine manufacturing industry.

12. Groupe Crédit Agricole

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1894
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 18
• LinkedIn:

Groupe Crédit Agricole is a cooperative banking group based in Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 1894. It provides a comprehensive range of financial services, including banking, insurance, and investment management, with a strong commitment to mutuality and social responsibility. In recent years, Crédit Agricole has engaged in significant transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, notably providing substantial debt financing to Embraer, a leading aircraft manufacturer, with transactions amounting to $350 million in August 2024 and $650 million in October 2022. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have been involved in financing oÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r aviation-related companies such as Wings Capital Partners and Avolon Holdings, indicating Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir active participation in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft manufacturing and leasing markets. This diverse investment portfolio highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir capability and interest in supporting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry, including aircraft engine manufacturing.

13. Thales

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Meudon, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 5
• LinkedIn:

Thales Group, founded in 1979 and based in Meudon, ÃŽle-De-France, France, is a corporate investor specializing in advanced electrical systems and devices for Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace, defense, transportation, and security sectors. With over 10,000 employees, Thales serves a diverse clientele, including governments and commercial enterprises. In recent years, Thales has made significant acquisitions to strengÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨n its position in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Cobham Aerospace Communications in April 2024, which enhances Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir capabilities in aerospace technologies. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir acquisition of Omnisys Engenharia in 2006 and THALES RAYTHEON Systems in 2016 furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r demonstrates Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to expanding Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir technological portfolio in areas that may intersect with aircraft engine manufacturing. These transactions highlight Thales's strategic focus on enhancing operational efficiency and safety in aerospace applications, making Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a relevant player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft engine manufacturing landscape.

14. Fondo Italiano d'Investimento SGR

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Milan, Lombardy, Italy
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn:

Fondo Italiano d'Investimento SGR is an investment management firm based in Milan, Lombardy, Italy, specializing in private equity and funds of funds. Founded in 2010, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ firm focuses on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in Italy by providing capital and investment strategies to enhance Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir competitiveness. It manages various investment funds aimed at driving sustainable development within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ Italian economy. Notably, Fondo Italiano has made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation sector, including a venture round for Mecaer Aviation Group, which is involved in aviation components, and a â‚�20 million financing for Turbocoating, a company specializing in protective coatings for gas turbine airfoils. These investments highlight Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ firm's engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft engine manufacturing context, alongside its broader investment strategy.

15. AP Ventures

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn:

AP Ventures is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2018. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage companies that focus on hydrogen and decarbonisation technologies, providing both capital and strategic support to startups aiming to develop innovative solutions for sustainable energy. Notably, AP Ventures has been involved in significant transactions with ZeroAvia, a company that is pioneering hydrogen-powered engines for aviation. They participated in multiple funding rounds for ZeroAvia, including a Series C round in September 2024 where ZeroAvia raised $34 million, and earlier rounds in 2021 that totaled $35 million in Series B and $13 million in Series A. These investments are aimed at supporting ZeroAvia's progress towards certification of its first engine and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ development of larger engines for commercial aircraft applications. This focus on sustainable aviation technology positions AP Ventures as a relevant investor in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft engine manufacturing sector.

16. Bayern Kapital

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Landshut, Bavaria, Germany
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 27
• LinkedIn:

Bayern Kapital is a venture capital firm based in Landshut, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1995. The firm specializes in providing investment and growth capital to innovative high-tech startups and scale-ups in Bavaria. With a focus on sectors such as life sciences and software, Bayern Kapital also supports its clients with financial resources and access to a network of industry experts. Notably, Bayern Kapital has participated in significant funding rounds for companies like Isar Aerospace, which is working on rocket engines and has completed numerous hot fire tests of its Aquila rocket engine. Their involvement in Isar Aerospace's Series C funding rounds, which aim to ramp up production and prepare for operational flights, highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, making Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a relevant player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft engine manufacturing landscape.

17. Smiths Group plc

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1851
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn:

Smiths Group plc is a multinational engineering company based in London, England, founded in 1851. The company specializes in providing innovative solutions across various sectors, including energy, defense, and healthcare. It operates through four main divisions: John Crane, Smiths Detection, Flex-Tek, and Smiths Interconnect. In Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, Smiths Group has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its capabilities. Notable transactions include Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Integral Aerospace in 2004, which strengÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ned Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir position in aerospace systems, and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace businesses of Invensys in 1999, aimed at expanding Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir range of aerospace electronics. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of United Flexible in 2018 furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r integrated Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir offerings in engineered solutions for fluid and gas transfer, which are essential in aerospace applications. These transactions highlight Smiths Group's commitment to advancing its aerospace capabilities, particularly in areas that intersect with aircraft engine manufacturing.

Aircraft Engine Manufacturing Insights: Key Investors in Europe

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
	Brussels, Brussels, Belgium	201-500	1958	57
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	10001+	2005	9
	Blagnac, Occitanie, France	10001+	2003	6
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	501-1000	2004	6
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	2011	53
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	10001+	1907	20
	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	1001-5000	1994	30
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	201-500	1945	3
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	1981	15
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	51-200	1999	8
	Munich, Bavaria, Germany	10001+	1847	11
	Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France	10001+	1894	18
	Meudon, ÃŽle-De-France, France	10001+	1979	5
	Milan, Lombardy, Italy	51-200	2010	1
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	11-50	2018	4
	Landshut, Bavaria, Germany	11-50	1995	27
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	10001+	1851	2

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