From Airbus apprentice to head of commercial aircraft business
October 31, 2024
Having started his career 30 years ago as an Airbus apprentice, Lars Wagner has now been appointed to succeed Christian Scherer as head of the OEM’s commercial aircraft business from 2026.
Lars Wagner has confirmed he will be stepping down from his current role as CEO of MTU Aero Engines at the end of 2025. He will join the Airbus Executive Committee in his new role as commercial aircraft chief executive at the beginning of 2026.
In an announcement on 30 October, Wagner informed the Supervisory Board at MTU Aero Engines that he would not be extending his contract as CEO of the engine manufacturer.
Describing himself as an “aerospace enthusiast”, Wagner said that after ten years he is “leaving his professional home and taking on a new role in the industry.” It was later disclosed that this new role is with Airbus.
Having joined MTU in 2015 as executive vice president OEM operations, Wagner was named CEO of the German firm in January 2023. Commenting on his decision not to extend his contract he said: “I have decided to seize a new professional opportunity starting 2026. In the time remaining I will continue to focus on further improving MTU’s operating and financial performance together with my colleagues and to secure the basis for a successful future with profitable growth.”
MTU’s chairman of the supervisory board, Gordon Riske expressed his regret at Wagner’s departure as he confirmed the board will address the issue of his succession in the near future.
Meanwhile, Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury added his delight at the appointment of Wagner saying that both he and Scherer were excited to have “such a talented industry leader coming back to the Airbus family in this key role.”
With a degree in mechanical and aeronautical engineering and an MBA, Wagner started his career as an apprentice at Airbus in Bremen and held a number of management positions at Airbus prior to joining MTU.
Scherer will remain at the helm of Airbus’ commercial aircraft business, a role he took on the beginning of 2024, until Wagner is onboard. He previously ran the sales division and prior to that served the OEM in numerous roles including as CEO of ATR and head of strategy. Scherer is also credited with playing a key role in launching the A320neo family. “We have a clear plan for our commercial aircraft business and after 40 years at Airbus I remain committed to the success of the company,” Scherer confirmed.
“I believe Lars, whom I have known for a long time, is the natural choice for Airbus as my successor. I very much welcome his nomination and look forward to working with him in this future transition.”
On Wednesday 30 October, Airbus announced $1.06 billion in net profit (recorded for the first nine months of 2024), up 22% year-on-year. The board of directors at Airbus also confirmed it will propose to shareholders at the 2025 Annual General Meeting the renewal of Guillaume Faury as Airbus CEO and executive member of the board.
