Airbus CEO's Insights on Post-Covid Challenges and Future Plans at Aviation Summit
Key Ideas
- Airbus CEO Faury discusses supply chain challenges post-Covid but affirms production target of 75 A320 aircraft per month.
- Airbus committed to supporting suppliers amidst labor and financial challenges, plans to integrate hydrogen-powered aircraft by 2035.
- European competitiveness emphasized in the face of rising Chinese presence in the global market, especially with the potential of the Comac 919.
At the Aviation Summit in Berlin, Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury addressed the impact of the post-Covid environment on the aviation industry. Despite facing supply chain challenges, Airbus remains steadfast in its goal to produce 75 A320 aircraft per month, its top-selling model. Faury acknowledged the frustration of airlines due to delivery delays, resulting in the prolonged use of older aircraft. While air traffic has largely recovered, the pace of new aircraft deliveries is still below pre-pandemic levels. Airbus is dedicated to assisting its suppliers amidst labor, financial, and cost inflation challenges. Looking towards the future, Airbus aims to introduce hydrogen-powered aircraft into its fleet and unveil an updated version of the A320 by 2035. Faury also highlighted the competitive landscape in the aerospace sector, particularly noting China's significant market share, which could grow with the introduction of the Comac 919. Faury stressed the importance of Europe maintaining its competitiveness in the face of this increasing competition.