2020 was a challenging year for our industry, stakeholders, and broader society.
The Company deployed its resources and expertise to assist the global fight against the pandemic.
The first A220 assembled in the US was delivered from Mobile, Alabama, while deliveries of the A330‑800 version of the A330neo widebody airliner started following certification.
Airbus Defence and Space’s next-generation OneSat telecommunication satellites saw continued success during the year.
A contract was signed to supply 38 new Eurofighter aircraft for the German Air Force, securing production until 2030 for the strategic pan-European programme.
The A321XLR’s industrialisation and related parts production gathered pace across Airbus sites and the wider supply chain.
Two important helicopter models were certified by the European Union regulator, further increasing the competitiveness and capability of the product line.
The Company prioritised research into carbon-neutral technologies to move towards more sustainable air travel.
Chairman's full messageSustainability is now deeply ingrained in the Company’s purpose and is truly becoming part of its DNA.
CEO's full interviewI’m proud that despite the crisis, we made 2020 a year of progress for Airbus in sustainable aerospace.
The year was a test of our resilience - of our operations and our values - and we are proud to have withstood this test by remaining agile and focused on our purpose.
Supporting the global fight against COVID-19 was a key activity during 2020. The Company also focused on ensuring the health and safety of employees and implemented new working standards and processes where required.
The Company quickly adapted its operations and business practices to reflect the new COVID-19 market environment as well as travel and health restrictions.
Despite COVID-19, the Company retained its strong focus on innovation to shape a sustainable aerospace industry that is autonomous, connected and zero-emission. Innovation is also pivotal to sustaining a competitive edge.
By delivering current programmes and progressing with innovative future technologies, the Company aims to retain its leading market position in the coming decades.
2020 was a landmark year for sustainability, as the Company made pioneering sustainable aerospace a strategic goal in line with its purpose.
Airbus was joined by two airline customers and three air navigation service providers to demonstrate the operational feasibility of its fello’fly initiative. Imitating the behaviour of birds, which fly together to use as little energy as possible, flying an aircraft in the smooth updraft of another aircraft could reduce fuel consumption by 5-10% per trip.
In a year when many children were forced to study from home, the Airbus Foundation launched its #AirbusDiscoverAtHome series on social media. It also continued to deliver aid to disaster zones. Following a major explosion, the Foundation and its partners sent a fully-loaded A350 to Beirut with 90 cubic metres of aid on board.
Commercial aircraft deliveries showed resilience and the year-on-year decline reflected the adverse market environment. 2020 still included a number of operational milestones.
Key achievements 2020
The Division showed resilience, retaining its leading market position and reporting higher earnings. Meanwhile, two new models were certified and further steps were taken on innovation programmes.
Key achievements 2020
The Division supported the Company’s overall performance, reporting higher order intake and earnings. Progress was made during the year on key European defence programmes.
Key achievements 2020