An explosion at the Safran Ventilation Systems plant in Blagnac, near Toulouse, France, on May 5, 2026, left two workers in critical condition and two others with light injuries.
The incident occurred around 10:30 local time in a test bay at the facility on Place Marcel-Dassault, close to Toulouse-Blagnac Airport. Local media reported that the blast may have resulted from the rupture of a pressurized nozzle during a high-pressure test, though Safran has not confirmed this.
The site, which produces fans, valves, and compressors for aerospace and defense clients, was fully evacuated. Firefighters and police responded, securing the area and sending staff home as production halted for the day. A psychological support unit was established for affected employees.
Safran launched an internal investigation alongside authorities and the labor inspectorate to determine the technical cause and prevent future incidents. Toulouse public prosecutor David Charmatz opened an inquiry into involuntary injuries, with police examining equipment condition, safety procedures, operating conditions, and prior alerts.