Likely Airbus suppliers show interest

LONDON, U.K. (WALA) - According to Mobile County officials, Mobile is drawing the attention of suppliers at the Farnborough International Air Show.

Mobile County Commissioners continued their efforts to expand the area's aerospace industry while attending the air show outside London.

"It doesn't end with Airbus," said County Commission President Connie Hudson, referring to last week's announcement that the European aircraft maker would build a $600 million assembly facility in Mobile. "In fact, we believe that Airbus will just be the beginning of a flourishing aerospace sector in Mobile."

The county commissioners and other Mobile area delegates met Monday and Tuesday with prospective businesses. Many of the firms are potential suppliers to the Airbus 320 that will be made in Mobile.

"Suppliers are obviously very interested in the project," said County Commissioner Merceria Ludgood. "Several companies have indicated that it's quite likely that they will have to have a presence in Mobile."

Tuesday evening, Mobile County co-hosted a reception for Airbus officials and potential suppliers in London where more than 200 people attended.

"There is tremendous enthusiasm in the aerospace industry for what's happening in Mobile," said County Commissioner Mike Dean. "The next few years, as the Airbus plant gets built out, will be fascinating for Mobile County."

Officials said the commissioners will return to Mobile Wednesday night and will vote Thursday morning on a $14 million incentives package for Airbus.