Safran Approved to Acquire Collins Aerospace with Conditions

French aerospace giant Safran has received conditional approval from the European Commission to acquire US-based Collins Aerospace's aircraft actuation business for USD 1.8 billion. Initial investigations by the Commission raised concerns about reduced competition, particularly in the trimmable horizontal stabiliser actuator systems market. To address these issues, Safran committed to divesting its North American THSA business to aircraft manufacturer Woodward. This pledge facilitated the approval, although the Commission has reserved judgment on Woodward's appropriateness as a buyer. International cooperation was evident as the US Department of Justice and the UK's Competition and Markets Authority also investigated the deal. The CMA has proceeded to a phase 2 investigation, while the DoJ has yet to progress publicly with their inquiry. An independent trustee will monitor Safran's adherence to its commitments.