Tata Sons Chairman Urges AI Employees to Maintain Course and Enhance Airline Safety

EmPower Introduces Aviation Training Emphasizing Sustainability and Innovation A new aviation training provider based in the United Kingdom, EmPower Flight, has officially launched with a mission to integrate sustainability and innovation into the education of pilots and cabin crew. Scheduled to commence courses in late February, EmPower aims to equip its graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the evolving demands of the aviation industry by embedding sustainable practices and forward-thinking operational strategies from the outset. Comprehensive Training Programmes with a Sustainable Focus EmPower Flight will offer the Airline Pilot Standard-Multi-Crew Cooperation (APS-MCC) programme, while its sister company, EmPower Crew, will provide Cabin Crew Attestation (CCA) training. Both programmes are led by a team of seasoned aviation professionals, including former airline training captains, ensuring a high standard of instruction grounded in industry experience. The APS-MCC course will be conducted using an Airbus A320 Neo simulator located at British Airways’ Flight Training facility at London Heathrow. This 14-day, 40-hour simulator programme incorporates airline Standard Operating Procedures, scenario-based training, and a strong emphasis on sustainable operations awareness. Additionally, Virtual Reality (VR) learning tools will be employed for pre-course preparation. Graduates will also receive ongoing support as they transition into their initial commercial roles. For aspiring cabin crew members, EmPower Crew’s seven-day immersive CCA programme combines industry-standard safety and service training with modules focused on emerging sustainability practices, employability skills, and career development support. Leadership and Industry Context Andrew Perkins, CEO of EmPower Flight, highlighted the company’s commitment to fostering a culture of integrity, excellence, and respect. He stated, “While many training providers focus solely on technical proficiency, our ambition is to introduce education on sustainable technologies and operational thinking from Day 1.” Rachel Gardner-Poole, Chief Sustainability and Growth Officer, underscored the importance of real-world relevance in the curriculum, noting that the courses are designed and delivered by instructors with extensive commercial airline experience. She emphasized the need for future aviation professionals to adopt innovative approaches in response to emerging technologies aimed at reducing the sector’s environmental impact. EmPower’s launch coincides with increasing pressure on the aviation industry to address environmental concerns. According to Aviation Week Network’s 2026 industry outlook, sustainability and innovation are becoming central to the future of aviation, creating a conducive environment for initiatives such as EmPower’s. However, the company faces a competitive market dominated by established training providers and will need to invest substantially in sustainable technology while aligning with evolving regulatory standards. Although the industry is likely to respond positively to the focus on sustainability, some skepticism may remain regarding the effectiveness and certification of new training methodologies. Competitors may also respond by adopting similar sustainable practices or enhancing their own programmes to maintain market position. EmPower’s approach reflects a broader shift within the aviation sector and positions the company to contribute to shaping the next generation of aviation professionals. Further information on available courses can be found on EmPower Flight’s official website.

Qatar Airways Unveils the World’s First Digital Cabin Crew Member In a pioneering advancement for the aviation sector, Qatar Airways has introduced “Q-Bot,” the world’s first fully digital, AI-powered cabin crew member. This innovative system is designed to assist passengers throughout their journey, representing a significant milestone in the integration of artificial intelligence within commercial aviation. A New Era of Passenger Assistance Q-Bot is not a physical robot but a sophisticated digital interface embedded within the airline’s cabin systems. Passengers can access the AI assistant via personal seat screens or the Qatar Airways mobile application. Utilizing natural language processing and machine learning, Q-Bot interacts with travelers in multiple languages, providing real-time flight updates, answering inquiries about onboard services and safety protocols, and managing routine requests such as meal orders or entertainment suggestions. For instance, a request for a vegetarian meal is immediately processed, with Q-Bot coordinating with human crew members to ensure timely delivery. Complementing Human Service with Technology Qatar Airways stresses that Q-Bot is intended to augment rather than replace its human cabin crew. By automating routine questions and service tasks, the airline aims to enable its staff to concentrate on delivering the personalized, high-quality service for which it is renowned. CEO Akbar Al Baker remarked, “At Qatar Airways, we believe that innovation is key to providing unmatched service. Q-Bot represents our commitment to leveraging technology to ensure our passengers enjoy a safe, comfortable, and personalized journey.” Challenges and Industry Implications The introduction of Q-Bot places Qatar Airways at the forefront of aviation technology, yet it also introduces new challenges. Regulatory approval for AI-driven cabin systems remains a critical hurdle, as authorities carefully evaluate safety and privacy concerns. Passenger acceptance is another factor; while tech-savvy travelers may welcome the digital assistant, some traditional passengers might prefer human interaction or express skepticism toward AI. Integrating Q-Bot with existing crew operations demands meticulous coordination to maintain service quality and ensure a seamless passenger experience. Industry analysts suggest that Qatar Airways’ initiative could set a precedent, encouraging competitors to explore similar digital solutions or, alternatively, to emphasize traditional human service as a competitive advantage. Part of a Broader Digital Strategy The launch of Q-Bot follows Qatar Airways’ series of technology-driven initiatives, including ventures into in-flight gaming and partnerships with platforms such as Fortnite. These efforts underscore the airline’s strategy to engage younger, digitally native audiences and to anticipate evolving passenger expectations. How Q-Bot Enhances the In-Flight Experience Q-Bot offers a range of features designed to improve passenger convenience and comfort. It provides real-time flight information, including updates on arrivals, connections, and delays. Passengers can place service requests for meals, drinks, or amenities directly from their seats. The AI assistant also offers personalized entertainment recommendations across movies, music, and games, while reinforcing safety procedures and emergency instructions. Its multilingual capabilities ensure effective communication with a diverse global clientele. As Q-Bot continuously learns from passenger interactions, its functionality is expected to expand, further enriching the in-flight experience. Whether this digital innovation becomes an industry standard or sparks debate over the role of technology in hospitality, Qatar Airways has undeniably established a new benchmark in the evolution of air travel.

Willis Lease Finance and Blackstone Credit Establish $1 Billion Aircraft Engine Leasing Partnership COCONUT CREEK, Fla. and NEW YORK, Jan. 5, 2026 — Willis Lease Finance Corporation (NASDAQ: WLFC), a prominent lessor of commercial aircraft engines, has entered into a strategic partnership with Blackstone Credit & Insurance (BXCI) to deploy over $1 billion in capital over the next two years. This collaboration targets both current and next-generation aircraft engines, as well as select aircraft, combining Willis Lease’s specialized expertise in engine leasing with Blackstone’s extensive private credit platform to strengthen their position in the expanding engine asset market. Strategic Collaboration and Market Positioning The partnership will capitalize on Willis Lease’s established asset management platform and its robust pipeline of high-quality engine assets, enabling immediate scale and diversification across various engine types and airline customers worldwide. Austin C. Willis, CEO of WLFC, expressed enthusiasm about the alliance, emphasizing that Blackstone’s scale and long-term capital commitment will accelerate the growth of Willis’s asset management business. He highlighted that Blackstone’s investment reaffirms Willis Lease’s strong standing in aircraft engine leasing and its capacity to generate attractive returns through disciplined asset selection and active management. Scott Flaherty, CFO of WLFC, underscored that the partnership introduces further capital diversification and new growth avenues for the Willis platform. Aneek Mamik, Senior Managing Director at Blackstone Credit & Insurance, praised Willis’s technical expertise and customer relationships, noting that the opportunity aligns with BXCI’s focus on hard assets and robust downside protection within large addressable markets. Market Dynamics and Competitive Landscape The partnership enters a commercial aircraft engine sector marked by both significant opportunity and intensified competition. The market remains buoyant, with promising prospects for engine manufacturers and lessors alike. However, increased activity from competing leasing firms is evident, particularly as the CF34 engine market approaches a major maintenance cycle. This surge in maintenance demand for regional jet fleets is expected to heighten competition, with rival lessors potentially adopting aggressive pricing strategies or innovative lease solutions to safeguard their market share. Alex Buck, Principal at Blackstone Credit & Insurance, emphasized that the partnership aims to support the expansion of Willis’s platform and provide essential engine solutions for the global aviation fleet. BXCI’s Infrastructure and Asset Based Credit group, which manages over $100 billion as of September 30, 2025, focuses on investment-grade and structured investments across sectors including infrastructure, commercial finance, and real estate. BNP Paribas served as the sole structuring agent and advisor to BXCI for this transaction. About Willis Lease Finance Corporation Willis Lease Finance Corporation specializes in leasing large and regional spare commercial aircraft engines, auxiliary power units, and aircraft to airlines, engine manufacturers, and maintenance providers worldwide. Its integrated services encompass end-of-life solutions, engine maintenance, aircraft disassembly, and airport ground handling through subsidiaries such as Willis Aeronautical Services, Willis Engine Repair Center®, Jet Centre by Willis, and Willis Aviation Services Limited.

Audio Reveals Off-Duty Pilot’s Attempt to Disable Alaska Airlines Engines Newly released cockpit audio and police footage have shed light on a harrowing incident that occurred in October 2023, when an off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot attempted to shut down the engines of a passenger aircraft mid-flight. The episode took place aboard a Horizon Air Embraer 175 operating a route from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco, reigniting discussions about pilot mental health, the influence of psychedelic substances, and the robustness of airline security protocols. Incident Details and In-Flight Response Joseph Emerson, a 46-year-old licensed pilot, was traveling in the cockpit jumpseat due to a full cabin. During the flight, he expressed to the operating crew that he was “not okay” and urgently wished to return home. Shortly thereafter, cockpit audio captured a tense struggle as Emerson reached for the engine fire suppression handles—critical controls designed to cut fuel supply to the engines if activated. One of the pilots immediately declared an emergency to air traffic control, stating, “It’s Horizon 2095. We got a jump seater, just tried to shut our engines off, we need to go direct to Portland, now.” The flight crew acted swiftly to restrain Emerson and remove him from the cockpit before any engine shutdown could occur. The aircraft, carrying 83 passengers and crew members in addition to Emerson, was safely diverted to Portland. No injuries were reported during the incident. Post-Incident Investigation and Legal Proceedings Upon landing, Emerson was taken into custody. Police dashcam footage shows him appearing disoriented and struggling to grasp the gravity of the situation. He described experiencing a “nervous breakdown” and conveyed a sense of unreality, stating, “I thought I was dreaming, man.” When questioned about any intent to harm himself, Emerson responded that he was “trying to wake up” and did not perceive reality as genuine. In subsequent interviews, Emerson admitted to consuming psilocybin mushrooms two days prior to the flight and enduring nearly 48 hours without sleep. He explained that he believed activating the fire suppression handles would “wake him up.” Investigators found no evidence suggesting that Emerson intended to cause a crash. Emerson later pleaded guilty and received a federal plea agreement, which included credit for time served and a sentence of three-and-a-half years of supervised release. Industry and Safety Implications The incident has prompted widespread reflection within the aviation community regarding the adequacy of mental health screening for pilots, the potential risks associated with psychedelic substance use, and the effectiveness of existing cockpit security measures. Aviation safety experts have commended the crew’s rapid and decisive response, emphasizing that the presence of two pilots and strict emergency protocols were instrumental in averting a potential catastrophe. This episode underscores the multifaceted challenges confronting the aviation industry, highlighting the critical importance of comprehensive mental health support, substance use awareness, and rigorous safety procedures to ensure passenger and crew safety.

Textron Systems Secures Contract for T-7A Maintenance Training Systems Textron Systems Corporation has been awarded a significant purchase order by Pinnacle Solutions, an Akima company, to support the United States Air Force’s T-7A Advanced Pilot Training Programme Maintenance Training System (MTS). The contract is valued at up to $62 million, encompassing a three-year base period worth $41 million, with additional options for training devices valued at $21 million. Scope of the Contract and Deliverables Under this agreement, Textron Systems will be responsible for the design, development, and production of the common fuselage structure utilized across three maintenance trainers. The company will also deliver the Mid Integrated System Maintenance Trainer (MID-ISMT) and the AFT Integrated System Maintenance Trainer (AFT-ISMT) in full. The contract’s optional provisions include the manufacture of additional units of these training systems. The T-7A Maintenance Training System is designed to equip maintainers with essential skills to support the T-7A aircraft and its subsystems. The integrated system maintenance trainers will provide highly realistic simulated environments and specialized training devices, enhancing both training and maintenance support. The MID-ISMT and AFT-ISMT will facilitate comprehensive training across multiple systems, covering tasks such as removal and installation, visual inspections, and a broad spectrum of maintenance procedures. Facility and Expertise All work under the contract will be conducted at Textron Systems’ facility in Goose Creek, South Carolina, which specializes in military simulation, mission, and maintenance training. This site plays a critical role in developing foundational flying and maintenance skills, enabling personnel to transition effectively to current fighter, transport, and bomber aircraft.

Safran to Develop Eurofl’Eye System for NH90 Helicopters Safran Electronics & Defense has been awarded a pivotal contract by the NATO Helicopter Management Agency to develop the Eurofl’Eye distributed panoramic vision system for NH90 helicopters. This agreement, forged in collaboration with NHIndustries and Thales, responds to the operational needs of France’s Direction Générale de l’Armement and Spain’s Dirección General de Armamento y Material. It marks a significant advancement in pilot assistance technology within the European defense sector. Enhancing Pilot Situational Awareness The Eurofl’Eye system is an advanced Distributed Aperture System designed to provide NH90 pilots with a comprehensive, real-time panoramic view of their surroundings, even under challenging conditions such as night operations, dust, and fog. By integrating imagery from six wide field-of-view infrared cameras, the system delivers a seamless, pilot-aligned image directly to the TopOwl helmet-mounted display developed by Thales. This enhanced vision capability is expected to substantially improve situational awareness, enabling safer and more precise mission execution. Alexandre Ziegler, Executive Vice President of the Defense Business Unit at Safran Electronics & Defense, emphasized that Eurofl’Eye will streamline access to critical information by embedding it directly into the pilot’s field of vision. He highlighted the system’s potential to improve pilot responsiveness and decision-making, particularly in severely degraded external environments. Ziegler also underscored the program as a demonstration of European industrial cooperation, uniting leading partners to deliver cutting-edge helicopter solutions. Challenges and Industry Implications The development of Eurofl’Eye presents several technical and operational challenges. Safran and its partners must meet stringent performance and integration requirements while ensuring seamless compatibility with existing NH90 systems. Adhering to tight delivery schedules mandated by military clients will be essential to the program’s success. The complexity of integrating new technology into established helicopter platforms necessitates rigorous testing and close collaboration among all stakeholders. The contract has attracted considerable attention from defense procurement agencies, with market analysts noting a growing interest in advanced pilot assistance systems that combine technological innovation with operational reliability. This development is also expected to prompt competitive responses from industry players such as Airbus Helicopters, who may intensify efforts to secure similar contracts or enhance their own offerings to maintain a strong position in the defense helicopter market. Initially, the Eurofl’Eye system will be deployed on French and Spanish NH90 TTH helicopters. Its development will draw on the combined expertise of key European industry partners, reinforcing cross-border innovation and enhancing the operational capabilities of helicopter fleets across Europe. As the program advances, it has the potential to establish new benchmarks for pilot assistance systems and influence future procurement strategies within the European defense landscape.

Enhancing Aviation Security with New Technologies Dr. Juergen Kappler, Portfolio Director for Aviation and Critical Infrastructure at Smiths Detection, is spearheading advancements in aviation security through the deployment of innovative technologies. In an exclusive interview with *Security Journal UK*, Dr. Kappler highlighted the industry’s growing emphasis on sustainable, energy-efficient solutions and the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing security products such as the SDX 10080 SCT. With a PhD in Physics and extensive expertise in measurement and detection systems tailored for regulated markets, Dr. Kappler manages Smiths Detection’s comprehensive portfolio for airports and critical infrastructure. This portfolio encompasses familiar checkpoint solutions used by travelers, as well as sophisticated technologies designed for baggage handling and air cargo security. Beyond the aviation sector, the company’s products include X-ray scanners and people-screening systems deployed in courthouses, schools, prisons, and large public venues. Dr. Kappler joined Smiths Detection over two years ago as Director of Technology, where he led research and development initiatives focused on next-generation security solutions. Approximately one year ago, his responsibilities expanded to include Product Management, overseeing both the development and lifecycle management of the company’s aviation and critical infrastructure product lines. SDX 10080 SCT: Setting New Standards in Baggage Screening A flagship innovation within Smiths Detection’s portfolio is the SDX 10080 SCT, a system primarily designed for hold baggage screening in airport environments. Typically installed in airport basements, these systems are tasked with screening checked luggage for potential threats such as explosives. The SDX 10080 SCT distinguishes itself through its exceptional efficiency and accuracy, addressing the critical operational challenge of ensuring timely delivery of all luggage to aircraft. The system achieves an industry-leading throughput exceeding 1,800 bags per hour, facilitated by several key design features. Its large tunnel opening, measuring 107 by 81 centimeters, accommodates even the largest permitted baggage. Specially engineered curtains enable light objects to pass smoothly, minimizing the risk of jams. Additionally, the system requires less than a 20-centimeter gap between bags, thereby maximizing throughput. Planned enhancements include adjustable belt speeds, which will allow airports to dynamically adapt to fluctuating passenger volumes. Integration Challenges and Market Dynamics Despite the clear advantages offered by technologies like the SDX 10080 SCT, integrating these systems with existing airport infrastructure presents notable challenges. Ensuring interoperability among diverse security technologies is essential, as is addressing the evolving cyber threat landscape that accompanies increased digitalization. Airports and operators must carefully balance the imperative for advanced security capabilities with concerns related to cost, complexity, and the seamless operation of legacy systems. Market responses to these technological advancements have been varied. While there is a discernible trend toward increased investment in security technologies driven by regulatory mandates and the pursuit of operational efficiency, some stakeholders remain cautious about the financial and logistical implications of adopting new systems. In response, competitors are accelerating innovation efforts, forging partnerships, and collaborating closely with government agencies to ensure compliance and maintain a competitive advantage. As the aviation sector continues to evolve, the integration of cutting-edge technologies, particularly AI-driven screening systems, will be vital for enhancing security, improving operational efficiency, and addressing the demands of an increasingly complex threat environment.

EasyJet Flight Grounded Following Mid-Air Engine Fire An easyJet Airbus A320-200 was forced to make an emergency landing in Italy after one of its engines caught fire during descent. The incident occurred on December 27, as Flight U2-3557 was approaching Lamezia Terme from Milan Malpensa Airport. According to reports from the Aviation Herald, flames erupted from the aircraft’s right engine during the landing phase, prompting the flight crew to shut down the engine and request priority clearance to land. Emergency Landing and Aftermath Despite the severity of the engine failure, the pilots maintained full control of the aircraft and executed a safe landing at Lamezia Terme Airport at 9:52 a.m., only two minutes behind schedule. All passengers and crew disembarked without injury. Video footage circulating on social media showed debris scattered from the damaged engine, which was later classified as an “uncontained” failure. This classification indicates that internal engine components breached the outer protective cowling, raising significant safety concerns. The 10-year-old aircraft remained grounded on the tarmac for six days while undergoing comprehensive inspections, repairs, and an engine replacement before returning to service. An easyJet spokesperson confirmed the incident, highlighting that the captain conducted a routine landing in accordance with established safety procedures. Emergency services were on standby as a precautionary measure. The spokesperson reiterated that “the safety of our customers and crew is easyJet’s highest priority” and affirmed the airline’s strict adherence to all manufacturer guidelines. Regulatory and Industry Implications The incident has drawn increased scrutiny from aviation regulators and may result in operational disruptions for easyJet, including potential compensation claims from affected passengers. Industry analysts suggest that such high-profile events could heighten consumer anxiety regarding air travel safety and may prompt competitors to emphasize or enhance their own safety protocols. Market reactions are already emerging, with aviation insurers anticipating higher premiums for easyJet and other carriers following recent incidents. Data indicates that insurance rates across the sector are expected to rise starting in 2026, which could have implications for the airline’s financial outlook. This event follows another recent disruption for easyJet, when a flight from Manchester to Reykjavik was diverted to Edinburgh due to adverse weather conditions. As airlines confront mounting regulatory and market pressures, the industry’s focus on safety and risk management is expected to intensify in the coming years.

Turkish Technic Renews and Expands Partnership with AirSial Turkish Technic, a prominent provider of aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, has renewed and expanded its partnership with AirSial, a private airline based in Pakistan. The two companies have formalized a new component pool services agreement covering AirSial’s Airbus A320ceo fleet. This extension will last for an additional five years and significantly broadens the scope of services offered under their collaboration. Strengthening Operational Support and Fleet Availability Building on a relationship that began in 2020, Turkish Technic will continue to provide comprehensive component support and pooling solutions for AirSial’s entire fleet. The company will utilize its extensive global inventory of components and spare parts, alongside its network of specialized workshops and warehouses worldwide, to enhance AirSial’s operational reliability and fleet availability. This expanded support aims to ensure that AirSial maintains high standards of service continuity and efficiency. Mikail Akbulut, CEO and Board Member of Turkish Technic, emphasized the significance of the renewed partnership, describing it as a key advancement that reflects the shared ambitions of both companies. He stated, “Supported by our world-class team of technicians and engineers, Turkish Technic remains committed to delivering comprehensive services to customers worldwide. We look forward to exploring new opportunities with AirSial in the years ahead.” Navigating a Competitive MRO Landscape The expanded partnership unfolds amid a highly competitive MRO industry environment. Turkish Technic faces the ongoing challenge of maintaining the reliability and quality of its maintenance services for AirSial, as aviation regulators and market observers closely scrutinize the operational efficiencies and market positions of both companies. Industry analysts suggest that this renewed agreement may prompt rival MRO providers to intensify efforts to attract AirSial or similar clients, potentially leading to more aggressive pricing strategies and enhanced service offerings across the sector. The success of the Turkish Technic-AirSial collaboration could also influence other airlines in the region as they reassess their own MRO arrangements, thereby increasing competition for Turkish Technic. Moving forward, both companies will need to carefully navigate these industry dynamics while preserving the trust and operational synergy that have defined their partnership to date. The expanded agreement is expected to further solidify the relationship between Turkish Technic and AirSial, positioning both firms to respond effectively to evolving market demands and regulatory expectations.

Airbus Appoints Lars Wagner as CEO of Commercial Aircraft Division Airbus has announced the appointment of Lars Wagner as the new president and chief executive officer of its Commercial Aircraft division, effective from the beginning of 2026. Wagner succeeds Christian Scherer, who retired on December 31 after a lengthy tenure but will remain with the company for six months to facilitate a smooth leadership transition. Wagner, who joined Airbus in November to commence the handover process, brings a wealth of industry experience, having previously served as CEO of MTU Aero Engines AG and held earlier roles within Airbus. Navigating Supply Chain Challenges and Strategic Decisions Wagner assumes leadership at a critical moment as Airbus contends with ongoing supply chain disruptions that have impacted the aerospace sector globally. Similar to its competitor Boeing and other major manufacturers, Airbus faces significant challenges in scaling up production. The company has set ambitious targets to increase output, aiming for 75 aircraft per month of its A320 family by 2027, 12 A220 units monthly this year, 12 A350 aircraft per month by 2028, and five A330s per month by 2029. However, persistent supply chain pressures, compounded by quality control issues such as recently revealed defects in A320 fuselage panels, have compelled Airbus to revise downward its delivery forecast for 2025. These difficulties are emblematic of broader industry-wide strains. Suppliers to both Airbus and Boeing are expected to intensify production efforts starting in 2026, a surge that analysts predict could lead to the steepest net price increases since 2023. In response to similar challenges, Boeing recently acquired Spirit AeroSystems for $4.7 billion, a strategic move aimed at enhancing production quality and supply chain resilience, potentially altering competitive dynamics within the sector. Despite these operational hurdles, the aviation industry remains robust. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts that global airlines will achieve a record net profit of $41 billion next year, reflecting strong demand. Boeing has also demonstrated improved performance amid ongoing supply chain issues, underscoring the competitive environment that Wagner now faces. Looking forward, Wagner will be tasked with critical strategic decisions that could shape Airbus’s future product portfolio. Key considerations include whether to develop a stretched version of the A220-300 to rival the size of the A320neo and whether to select the GE/Safran CFM International RISE Open Fan engine for the eventual A320 replacement. Airbus Group CEO Guillaume Faury indicated at last year’s Paris Air Show that an engine decision is anticipated by 2027 or 2028, with a program launch targeted for 2030. Notably, a RISE demonstrator engine is scheduled for flight testing on an A380 next year. Wagner inherits not only the operational challenges facing Airbus but also pivotal strategic choices. His predecessor, Scherer, was a strong proponent of both the A220 stretch and the adoption of next-generation propulsion technologies, advocating for Airbus to lead rather than follow market trends. As Wagner takes the helm, his leadership will be instrumental in determining Airbus’s competitive position in the coming decade.