Airbus Considers New Executive Position to Streamline Aircraft Manufacturing Focus

In a recent development, Airbus is exploring the possibility of establishing a dedicated executive role within the company to concentrate on its aircraft manufacturing operations. The move comes as Airbus seeks to optimize its organizational structure and enable its current CEO, Guillaume Faury, to focus on strategic matters.

According to sources familiar with the matter, Airbus aims to create this new position to oversee all aspects related to the production of its commercial aircraft. However, approval from the company’s board is required, making the decision not guaranteed at this stage.

This move mirrors a similar structure employed by Airbus’ primary competitor, Boeing, where the CEO, David Calhoun, oversees the company, and other executives, such as Stan Deal, CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, report directly to him.

Guillaume Faury assumed the role of President of Airbus Commercial Aircraft after succeeding Fabrice Bregier in February 2018. Later, he was selected to replace the former Airbus CEO, Tom Enders, following the company’s Annual General Meeting in April 2019.

Since taking on the CEO position, Faury has faced significant challenges, including navigating the COVID-19 downturn and addressing the ongoing global supply chain crisis affecting major aircraft manufacturers.

During the latest update in May 2023, Airbus reported “adverse” operating conditions with “persistent tensions in the supply chain.” In response, the company plans to deliver more aircraft during the second half of 2023, with monthly delivery rates showing improvement compared to the same period in the previous year.

As Airbus continues to adapt to the dynamic aerospace industry, the decision to establish a separate executive position focused on aircraft manufacturing could prove critical to the company’s long-term success. Nonetheless, it awaits the board’s approval to move forward with this strategic restructuring.