RTI plant in Va. begins production

MARTINSVILLE, Va. -- Titanium production is under way at RTI International Metals Inc.'s new $135 million plant in Martinsville, Va.

Pittsburgh-based RTI says the plant produced its first certified commercial aerospace titanium product on Thursday.

Gov. Bob McDonnell and executives from RTI and Airbus attended a ceremony at the plant to mark the beginning of production.

Much of the plant's output will be used by Airbus to produce its passenger jets.

RTI president, CEO and vice chair Dawne Hickton says the Martinsville plant is a key addition to the company's ability to meet Airbus' expanding titanium needs.

EADS and Airbus senior vice president Eric Zanin says the plant expands the companies' long-term partnership with RTI.