According to a Reuters exclusive, Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury warned employees to be prepared for new and unsettling geopolitical risks following “significant” commercial losses caused by U.S. protectionism and U.S.–China trade tensions.
According to an internal company memo seen by Reuters, Faury said that 2026 is beginning with an unprecedented number of crises and stressed that Airbus must act with solidarity and confidence during this period.
“The Geopolitical Environment Is Getting Worse”
In his message to employees, CEO Guillaume Faury used the following statements:
“The beginning of 2026 is marked by an unprecedented number of crises and unsettling geopolitical developments. The industrial environment in which we operate is becoming increasingly challenging, not least due to the conflict between the United States and China.”
Airbus declined to comment publicly on internal company communications.
How Are Trade Tensions Affecting Airbus?
In Faury’s note, it was stated that trade pressures have caused significant indirect logistical and financial damage to Airbus. The extensive tariffs announced by the United States last year prompted China to impose restrictions on exports of rare earth elements.
Washington also temporarily halted exports of engines and certain critical components used in China’s C919 passenger aircraft. Some of these parts are also required for Airbus aircraft assembled in China. Although the aerospace sector has been partially exempted from some tariffs, uncertainties in the supply chain persist.
“We Achieved Good Results Despite the Challenges”
Despite trade and geopolitical pressures, Faury congratulated Airbus’s 160,000 employees for achieving generally “good results” in 2025. Airbus will announce its financial results on February 19.
According to the CEO’s assessment:
- Airbus Defence and Space has reached a more solid footing following extensive restructuring
- Airbus Helicopters is showing a stable and strong performance
- The commercial aircraft division has made progress in its cost-reduction plan
Recalls and Supply Chain Lessons
Faury said important lessons must be learned from the largest recall process in Airbus’s history, which took place in November and was linked to a software update. Days later, delivery targets were lowered due to faulty fuselage panels, while financial targets were maintained.
The CEO noted that supply chains have improved in the post-COVID period but disruptions still persist, adding that the biggest problems are being experienced with engine suppliers Pratt & Whitney and CFM.
Airbus and Boeing Prepare for the 2030s
According to Faury, Airbus and Boeing aim to build a “war chest” over the next decade by focusing on profitability. The goal is to enter the race to develop next-generation aircraft from a position of strength.
On the Airbus side, this process is expected to take shape with the successor to the A320, which is anticipated to enter service toward the late 2030s.
Faury addressed employees with the following words:
“Profitable growth in the second half of the 2020s is essential. We must enter the 2030s truly in ‘Olympic shape’. The future of Airbus depends on our ability to deliver this strategy.”
