Airbus is suspending the majority of its production in Spain, in line with the Spanish government’s stricter embargo on all ‘non-essential activities’ until 9 April, 2020.

“Some key activities in [our] commercial aircraft, helicopters and defence and space [divisions] remain essential,” says a statement from the aircraft manufacturer.

“Minimal activity in these areas for necessary support functions, such as security, IT, engineering, will remain under the stringent health and safety measures implemented by Airbus to protect its employees against the COVID-19 pandemic.”

All other activities in the aforementioned departments have been suspended until the latest restrictions are lifted, it says.

As of 30 March 2020, 7,340 people have died from Coronavirus in Spain, making it the worst-affected country in the world behind Italy, according to BBC News.

Catalonia, the Basque region and the capital city Madrid are among the areas with the highest numbers of cases, provoking the Spanish government to impose severe restrictions on residents’ activities across the nation from 14 March.

“Airbus will work closely with its social partners to apply the social measures applicable under the latest restrictions,” adds the statement.

“Employees in Spain whose jobs are not linked to production and assembly activities and can work from home will continue to support [the company’s] business continuity in these difficult times.”

The aircraft manufacturer has also underscored its need “to retain its ability to support the global crisis efforts” whilst supporting customers and suppliers.