Group 303

Manufacture of civil aircraft and spacecraft

This CAEN division covers the manufacturing, repair and maintenance of civil aircraft, including airplanes, helicopters and spacecraft. It also includes the production of engines, spare parts and components for these vehicles, as well as flight simulators. It covers the entire civil aeronautical production chain, from design to certification.

Included Activities & Applicability

  • Manufacture of commercial and passenger airplanes
  • Manufacture of civil helicopters
  • Manufacture of spacecraft and launch vehicles
  • Manufacture of aircraft engines and turbines
  • Manufacture of aircraft parts and subassemblies
  • Manufacture of flight simulators for civil use
  • Repair and maintenance of civil aircraft (MRO)
  • Aeronautical design and engineering
  • Testing and certification of civil aircraft

Excluded Activities & Restrictions

  • Manufacture of general electronic components (CAEN code 261)
  • Manufacture of parachutes and survival equipment (CAEN code 3020)
  • Manufacture of weapons and ammunition for military use (CAEN code 252)
  • Manufacture of non-aeronautical navigation systems (CAEN code 265)
  • Manufacture of military land vehicles (CAEN code 3040)
  • Manufacture of drones for military use (CAEN code 3040)
  • Air transport activities (CAEN code 5110)
  • Renting and leasing of aircraft (CAEN code 7735)
  • Air traffic management activities (CAEN code 5223)

Detailed Analysis & Commercial Insights

Manufacture of Civil Aircraft and Spacecraft

The industry of manufacturing civil aircraft and spacecraft represents one of the most sophisticated and technologically advanced sectors of the global economy. In Romania, this niche benefits from a long tradition, from the first aeronautical workshops to participation in the supply chains of global giants such as Airbus and Boeing. CAEN code 303 covers not only the production of complete aircraft, but also essential related activities such as the manufacture of engines, turbines, structural components and avionics systems, as well as repair and maintenance services. Macroeconomically, this sector has a significant impact through high added value, well-paid jobs and the stimulation of innovation in composite materials, propulsion and onboard electronics. The evolution of this industry has been marked by a constant increase in air transport demand, which has led to the development of new technologies and the expansion of production capacities. However, entrepreneurs active in the CAEN 303 sphere face specific challenges such as the need for massive investments in capital and research, strict compliance with international certifications (EASA, FAA), demand volatility dependent on economic cycles and fuel price fluctuations, as well as fierce competition from major manufacturers. In addition, access to specialized labor, from aeronautical engineers to qualified technicians, is a critical factor for success. Nevertheless, Romania has considerable potential to grow in this niche, especially through integration into European aviation clusters and attracting research and development projects in the aerospace field. The development of testing and certification infrastructure, as well as partnerships with technical universities, can strengthen our country's position on the global map of civil aviation.