European manufacturer Airbus concluded 2024 with better-than-expected results, according to Guillaume Faury, the company’s CEO, in a memo addressed to employees. While initial fears of a significant drop in profitability targets did not materialize, the executive warned of an increasingly complex international environment that could impact the company’s operations in 2025.
Key Achievements in 2024
Operationally, Airbus reported 766 aircraft deliveries, coming close to its target of “around 770.” This achievement cements its leadership over its main competitor, Boeing, for the sixth consecutive year. Additionally, Airbus Defence and Space, along with Airbus Helicopters, achieved “excellent commercial performance,” standing out in strategic sectors.
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However, the CEO emphasized the need to improve quality and delivery timelines, as the company faces an engine shortage due to increased production towards the end of the year.
Consolidation in the Space and Defense Sectors
The company is evaluating new strategies to strengthen its position in the space sector, one of its most impacted areas. Among the options under consideration are a possible consolidation of activities and the establishment of new partnerships.
A notable example is the potential collaboration between Airbus, Thales, and Leonardo, inspired by the MBDA model, the world’s second-largest missile manufacturer. However, an analysis by the consultancy Syndex warns of the potential impact of these initiatives on employment, as Airbus has already announced 2,000 job cuts in its Defence and Space division.
Risks in a Changing Global Environment
Faury also noted that the international landscape is deteriorating, with increasing geopolitical and economic risks. One of the key uncertainties is the trade policy of the United States under Donald Trump’s second term. The threat of a return to protectionism and tariff imposition concerns the industry, especially after the progress made in 2021 with the five-year truce in the aircraft subsidy conflict between the European Union and the United States.
Commitment to Sustainability and the Future
Airbus continues to prioritize sustainability, with significant investments in green technology such as hydrogen-powered aircraft. According to Faury, climate change remains a “critical challenge for humanity,” reinforcing the company’s commitment to more environmentally friendly solutions. However, less critical projects may be eliminated to focus resources on this transition.
With information from Reuters
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