A day in the life at Safran Helicopter Engines

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Alternance-Insertion | Relations entreprises

On 1 April 2026, second-year engineering students from ESTIA had the opportunity to visit the Safran Helicopter Engines site in Tarnos.

Hands-on experience with a leading aerospace company


Objective: to gain a practical insight into how an international aerospace company operates and to better understand the challenges facing a rapidly growing sector.

👉 This immersion allowed them to observe, in real-world conditions, the industrial processes involved in the maintenance and repair of helicopter engines.


Understanding how an international industrial group operates

The visit began with a presentation of the Safran Group, a major player in the aerospace, space and defence sectors.

The students then explored in more detail the activities of Safran Helicopter Engines, a world leader in the design, production and maintenance of helicopter engines.

Particular attention was paid to the Tarnos site, renowned for its expertise in engine repair and maintenance, a strategic activity in the lifecycle of aerospace equipment.


An immersion in the heart of industrial processes

The site visit was a highlight of the day.

The students were able to follow the entire journey of an engine:

  • receipt and diagnosis
  • dismantling and inspection
  • repair and replacement of parts
  • reassembly and testing

This hands-on approach enabled them to see the concepts covered in class in practice and to gain a better understanding of the complexity of industrial processes in the aerospace sector.


A rapidly growing sector at the heart of industrial challenges

Aerospace is now a strategic sector, driven by major challenges:

  • technological innovation
  • energy transition
  • industrial performance
  • equipment maintenance and sustainability

Thanks to this visit, the students were able to understand the key role played by companies such as Safran Helicopter Engines in these transformations.


Envisioning their future careers as engineers

Beyond the technical insights, this immersion also gave students the chance to chat with the site teams.

These discussions provided an opportunity to:

  • gain a better understanding of careers in aerospace engineering
  • identify the skills required in the industry
  • gather practical advice for their career path

🎯 An important step in refining their plans and giving meaning to their studies.


ESTIA: an engineering school with strong links to industry

This visit fully illustrates ESTIA’s DNA: a general engineering school with strong links to the industrial world.

Throughout their studies, students benefit from:

  • projects in collaboration with businesses
  • presentations by professionals
  • work placements and industrial experience
  • visits to strategic sites

👉 A teaching approach rooted in the real world, which promotes employability and an understanding of contemporary engineering challenges.


An immersive approach to engineering education

By going behind the scenes at a leading company such as Safran Helicopter Engines, ESTIA students enrich their education and develop a practical understanding of their future profession.

A memorable experience that confirms the importance of the close link between academic training and the realities of industry.