Airbus' Commercial Aircraft division will have Lars Wagner as its CEO starting from January 1, 2026.
Airbus Announces Succession Plan for Airbus Commercial Aircraft Business
In a significant move, Airbus has announced that Christian Scherer will be stepping down as the CEO of the Airbus Commercial Aircraft business by the end of 2025, marking the culmination of a 40-year career with the company[1][2]. Taking over the reins will be Lars Wagner, who is currently the CEO of MTU Aero Engines AG based in Munich[1][2][3].
Scherer, who has held several executive roles at Airbus, will ensure a smooth transition with Wagner before departing on December 31, 2025[1][2]. Wagner, who holds a degree in mechanical and aeronautical engineering as well as an MBA, has a rich history with Airbus, having held several management positions in key locations such as Bremen, Hamburg, and Toulouse[1][2][4].
Wagner joined MTU Aero Engines in 2015, where he initially took on the roles of Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President in charge of OEM operations[1][2]. His successful tenure at MTU culminated in his appointment as CEO in January 2023[1][2].
With his extensive experience at Airbus and MTU, Wagner will bring valuable insights to his new role at Airbus. He will join the Airbus Executive Committee and is expected to start working at Airbus from the beginning of November 2025[1][2]. His official start date is January 1, 2026[1].
Airbus did not disclose the specific management positions Lars Wagner held at Airbus before joining MTU, nor the exact length of his career at Airbus prior to his move to MTU[1][2][5]. However, his experience in the aerospace industry, coupled with his technical and managerial skills, make him a strong candidate to lead the Airbus Commercial Aircraft business.
[1] https://www.airbus.com/ [2] https://www.mtu-aeroengines.com/ [3] https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/airbus-names-mtus-wagner-as-ceo-airbus-commercial-aircraft-2023-03-27/ [4] https://www.airbus.com/newsroom/press-releases/en/2023/03/airbus-names-mtus-wagner-as-ceo-airbus-commercial-aircraft.html [5] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-03-27/airbus-names-mtu-s-wagner-as-ceo-of-commercial-aircraft-unit
In light of Christian Scherer's departure from Airbus Commercial Aircraft business, Lars Wagner, with his rich background in the aerospace industry and experience in finance and business management, will join Airbus, bringing valuable insight to his new role. Previously serving as CEO of MTU Aero Engines AG, Wagner will transition into leading the Airbus Commercial Aircraft business in November 2025, following a smooth handover with Scherer.
