U.S. and Japanese aerospace companies mingle in Paris

AIA and the Society of Japanese Aerospace Companies held a joint reception on the eve of the 2011 Paris Air Show, underlining the importance between U.S.-Japanese cooperation, especially in the aerospace industry.

Chief among topics of conversation was the recovery following this spring’s earthquake. According to SJAC’s Chairman Kazuo Tsukuda, the Japanese aerospace supply chain has been relatively lucky.

SJAC's Chairman Kazuo Tsukuda is also Chairman of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, the firm that manufactures the composite wings of the 787.

Tsukuda said, “As for the Japanese aerospace industry, fortunately, there was relatively little damage [due to the earthquake.] Even the greatly affected IHI factory resumed their production in May, which assures the delivery and quality of the aircraft engine parts exported from Japan.”

AIA’s President and CEO Marion Blakey further underlined the relationship between the two countries. “The over flights of the damaged nuclear reactor by Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and the humanitarian missions carried out by both U.S. and Japanese aircraft reminds us of the important role the aerospace industry plays in keeping the world secure... I am confident the AIA-SJAC friendship will continue to grow as we navigate uncharted airspace filled with both obstacles and opportunities for our industry.”

SJAC President Kosuke Imashimizu, SJAC Chairman Chairman Tsukuda, Senator Daniel K. Inouye and wife Irene Hirano with AIA President and CEO Marion Blakey