Airbus to invest € 2bn in R&D in 2012

Over 90% to benefit the environment

27 MARCH 2012 PRESS RELEASE

At the Airbus Day 2012 in Brussels, a high-profile gathering of over 100 Members of the European Parliament, policy-makers and industry representatives discussed key issues for the European aerospace industry. Christian Scherer, Head of Airbus Strategy and Future Programmes said: "Airbus is a truly European company, and one that highlights how successful Europe can be if we work together. Despite the tough economic environment, we will invest nearly two billion Euros in environmental research and development this year. We will also recruit 4,000 new high-skilled employees in 2012, and many more in the supply chain."

"Over the last decade, aviation achieved 45 percent growth with only 3 percent more fuel," said Rainer Ohler, Head of Airbus Public Affairs and Communications, "That is the best evidence for our industry's long track record in going green. The EU and national governments should support this commitment by making progress with the Single European Sky and the modernisation of Europe's outdated air traffic management technology. This could reduce Europe's CO2 emissions from aviation by 10%." 

Airbus' R&D efforts are focused on reducing gaseous and noise emissions. Airbus is fully committed to meet the global aviation industry targets: improving fuel efficiency by 1.5 % on average per year to 2020, to cap net carbon emissions from 2020, and work towards the ambitious goal of a 50 % reduction by 2050 – compared to 2005 levels.

Airbus is the leading aircraft manufacturer offering a complete range of aircraft families, from 100 to well over 500 passenger seats, as well as the most modern, comprehensive and eco-efficient product line on the market.