Hamburg Aviation, the coordinator of the European Aerospace Cluster Partnership (EACP), has announced the official formation of the Global Aerospace Cluster Partnership (GACP) to foster collaboration, knowledge exchange and innovation within the global aerospace community.
The first official GACP meeting took place during the Paris Air Show 2023 and brought together 12 clusters and cluster facilitators from around the world, marking a significant milestone in promoting international aerospace cluster collaboration.
“By establishing the Global Aerospace Cluster Partnership, we create the foundation for a continuous global knowledge exchange, strategic collaboration, and joint initiatives. Together, we enhance the competitiveness of our members and strengthen their position as global leaders in innovation,” commented Niklas Schilling, EACP Coordinator and International Affairs Manager at Hamburg Aviation.
Six years in the making
Beginning in 2017, the Global Aerospace Cluster summits have been a significant catalyst for collaboration among aerospace clusters worldwide. The annual summits have provided a platform for clusters to connect, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities for growth and partnerships.
During the 2022 summit at the Farnborough International Airshow, the desire for a more frequent exchange opportunity amongst the clusters was a key point of discussion and interest. Building upon the success of these summits, the GACP was born out of a shared vision and the desire for more frequent and extensive exchange opportunities among aerospace clusters.
New partnership
The new partnership is designed to foster meaningful exchanges, facilitate joint initiatives and create synergies among partners for the benefit of member companies. Through international collaboration, the partnership aims to address common challenges and explore innovative solutions to drive growth, sustainability, and competitiveness across the aerospace sector. Drawing closely from the momentum already present in the EACP, the GACP will add a global dimension to these initiatives.
“We are proud to kick off the GACP as a founding member together with cluster partners from all over the world,” said Van Gao, Managing Director, International Aviation Supply Chain. “In 2022, the first GACP China Hub was established in the Shanghai area as an engagement center for our global aviation clusters and SMEs, facilitating information sharing, B2B matchmaking, investments, and project cooperation. We are excited to offer the China Hub space and services to all GACP partners and respective SME members.”
