Goodrich Corporation and Xi’an Aircraft International Corporation (XAIC) have signed agreements to form two 50-50 joint venture companies – between XAIC and each of Goodrich Landing Gear and Goodrich Aerostructures – to support landing gear and engine nacelle components manufacturing.

Aimed at tapping the fast-growing Chinese aerospace market, the new companies are expected to compete for market positions on the COMAC C919 single aisle Chinese commercial aircraft currently under development, and also manufacture various landing gear and nacelle components and subassemblies for other aircraft.

Marshall Larsen, Goodrich chairman, president and CEO said: “Goodrich is committed to extending its footprint in China, the world’s fastest growing market for commercial aircraft. These joint ventures with XAIC, one of China’s leading aerospace companies, will enhance our competitiveness to pursue business on new Chinese commercial aircraft such as the C919.”

Goodrich currently operates facilities in Hong Kong, Tianjin and Xiamen, China.

Earlier, Goodrich opened a new facility in China’s Tianjin Airport Industrial Park to support nacelle and thrust reverser original equipment, as well as maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) activities.

The company said the 50,000 square foot facility, its second in Asia after Singapore, will perform nacelle and thrust reverser MRO work for customers in the region. In addition, it will support engine buildup and podding work for the new Airbus A320 Family aircraft final assembly line in Tianjin.

The facility serves as an interim location until 2010 when Goodrich plans to open a 170,000 square foot permanent facility in Tianjin directly across from the Airbus final assembly line.

The new facility will also serve as the headquarters for Goodrich’s supply chain activities in China.