Market

Airbus is a leading aircraft manufacturer whose customer focus, commercial know-how, technological leadership and manufacturing efficiency have propelled it to the forefront of the aviation and air transport industries. 

The company regularly captures approximately half of all commercial airliner orders in the 100-seat and above categories, and its commercial order book backlog of more than 4,680 aircraft set an industry record as of December 2012.   Customers from around the world have ordered more than 12,300 Airbus jetliners, with deliveries totaling over 7,600 aircraft.

Airbus' mission is to provide the aircraft best suited to the market's needs and to support these aircraft with the highest quality of service. Its modern and comprehensive product line comprises highly successful families of aircraft ranging from 107 to 525 seats: the single-aisle A320 Family (A318/A319/A320/A321); the widebody long-range A330/A340 and next-generation A350 XWB Family; as well as the double-deck A380 Family.

The company’s A320 product line will be even more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly with the A320neo (new engine option), which provides the minimum change with maximum benefit for the A319, A320 and A321 through the availability of two new jet engine choices – CFM International’s LEAP and the PW1100G PurePower from Pratt & Whitney – along with the use of Airbus’ fuel-saving Sharklets wingtip devices.

Across the product line of fly-by-wire jetliners, Airbus’ unique approach ensures that its aircraft share the highest possible degree of commonality in on-board systems, cockpits and handling characteristics.

The company’s highly capable military aircraft family covers a full range of airlift and support missions, from the C212, CN235 and C295 tactical transports to the A330-based Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) and the A400M multi-role airlifter – which is set to replace ageing fleets of C-130 Hercules and C-160 Transalls.

Airbus has a history of bringing together the best from different nations around the world. This proven track record is underscored by the company’s global network of suppliers, which are drawn from more than 30 countries to deliver components, parts, systems and hardware at the highest quality levels.

In addition, Airbus is committed to outsourcing larger work packages to suitable long-term partners and trusted Tier One suppliers. This allows for enhanced lean design and manufacturing for Airbus, along with increased industrial flexibility. After a careful selection process – including risk assessment – Airbus’ policy is to involve such partners and suppliers at the earliest possible joint development stage to foster a collaborative relationship.

In 1995, Airbus became the first aircraft manufacturer to create an operation dedicated to working with lessors.  These companies – including two of Airbus' largest customers, GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS) and International Lease Finance Corporation (ILFC) – offer a low-risk option for airlines, allowing them to operate without the need for financing a fleet and providing flexibility to add or remove capacity as needed.

Major leasing companies – including two of Airbus' largest customers, GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS) and International Lease Finance Corporation (ILFC) – offer a low-risk option for airlines, allowing them to operate without the need for financing a fleet and providing flexibility to add or remove capacity as needed.

Lessors also represent low-risk customers for Airbus, as they are less susceptible to the cyclical nature of air travel due to their global presence.