UK-based engineering group Meggitt has finalised a long-term supply agreement with Airbus to provide its new NuCarb carbon brake for the A321neo aircraft programme.

The company will also provide a new set of wheels that aims to improve the performance of the A321neo.

Meggitt’s two technologies are expected to help Airbus increase the aircraft’s gross take-off weight, improve other performances and reduce operating costs.

Meggitt chief operating officer Tony Wood said: “We broke new ground with Airbus two decades ago, and are proud to be doing so again by pairing our NuCarb technology with the A321neo.”

"Meggitt’s two technologies are expected to help Airbus increase the aircraft’s gross take-off weight, and improve other performances, and reduce operating costs."

Following delivery, the brakes will undergo a flight testing and certification programme that has been developed by Meggitt in conjunction with Airbus’ A321neo launch schedule.

Meggitt manufactures NuCarb brakes at its carbon manufacturing facility in Danville, Kentucky, US.

The partnership between the two companies dates back two decades when they collaborated on the design of the first A321 aircraft wheel and brake.

In June, Meggitt secured a contract from Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) to supply door safety systems for its C919 aircraft.

Production of the system is set to be carried out at the company’s Simi Valley site in California, US, next year.