It seems impossible to dissociate “Airbus” and “European Union” (E.U.). The history of their creation can already draw a parallel between the two: Airbus, like the E.U., is the result of a lengthy integration process of many actors, a circle born of the expression of a political will.
American aircraft manufacturers, led by Boeing, followed by Lockheed and McDonnell Douglas, dominated the market during World War II.
From the end of the 1960s, European governments anticipated an increase in demand for airplanes from airlines due to the rise in the number of passengers linked to the increase in the standard of living. The supremacy of the United States in this area was undeniable: American companies held 80% of the commercial aviation market share.
How did this European company become a European model?
There are many reasons for this success. The first is its genesis in the European political sphere. The creation of Airbus, which occurred at a time when European economies were not nearly as integrated as they are today, was a political achievement.
Despite the crisis, the European aircraft manufacturer responded faster than expected
In 2021, Airbus overcame the crisis. With 611 aircraft delivered, 45 more than in 2020, the European aircraft manufacturer has exceeded its target of 600 deliveries and is on track to return to its pre-Covid-19 level. The world’s number one aerospace company has confirmed its return to form in terms of orders, with 507 firm contracts signed.
In 2022, the prospects of a recovery from the crisis are multiplying. Perhaps the best is yet to come for our giant European manufacturer!
