Decision-maker: François Caudron, Vice President Marketing, Airbus

Where does Airbus stand today?

François Caudron - This makes 50 years old thatAirbus exists. It's been a remarkable journey, because 50 years is not a long time! We were just one conceptToday, we are the market leader for single-aisle aircraft, with a short-haul market share of 60 %. And on long-haul, we fluctuate between 45 % and 50 %. Airbus means a plane taking off or landing every 1.2 seconds, and it also means 130,000 employees. In 2019, we celebrated the order for our 20,000th machine... We are a global company with a strong international presence built on proud European roots.

The environment is playing an increasingly important role. How is Airbus tackling this sustainability challenge?

François Caudron - First of all, it should be remembered that aircraft manufacturers have been working for a long time on improving environmental performance. In 50 years, we have reduces CO2 emissions by 80 % airliners and 90 % the noise pollution. It's important to get the word out. Everyone - builders, airlines and passengers - must assume their responsibilities, because the environment is everyone's business. Aircraft manufacturers are continuing to work on creating more fuel-efficient aircraft through, for example, the use of composite materials or the development of new engines. Airlines, for their part, must optimise their fleets. We offer modules to suit all types of market, including the new A321 XLRa long-haul single-aisle aircraft that can be used to serve secondary markets. It's a real revolution, as the aircraft offers the possibility of relieve congestion at the most congested airports andopen up new routesfor example New York-Bordeaux or Nice-Boston. This allows optimum use of aircraft. Finally, it is the passenger liability to select their airline, not only for the prices it offers, but also for the type of aircraft it operates, with its minimal carbon footprint.

Our new "Airspace" cabin signature is a concept based on comfort, atmosphere, service and design.

What changes have been made to passenger comfort?

François Caudron - There is now a convergence in the configuration with the aim of offering the same level of comfort as long-haul aircraft, on both short- and medium-haul aircraft. At Airbus, this is reflected in our new "Airspace" cabin signatureA concept based on comfort, atmosphere, service and design. Our A350 XWB is a model of its kind, with a more airy cabin, larger baggage compartments, bigger windows and lighting moods that vary according to the phase of the flight. We've also done a lot of work on pressurisation and, as a result, the atmosphere in the cabin is more pleasant. A hint? Passengers can easily put their shoes back on at the end of a flight! It's the same attention to detail that we offer on our single-aisle aircraft, including the possibility of offering a Business Class product similar to that of a long-haul aircraft.

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Will we one day be able to have fully modular aircraft?

François Caudron - It's technologically possible, but I'm not sure it's in the air right now. The need for rationalising space on board goes against the creation of special areas. For example, we have offered our customers a bar area or even bunks in the hold. But this could require specific management due to operational constraints.

Are we heading for a new technological revolution?

François Caudron - Innovation is in our DNA. For example, we are heavily involved in the development of VTOLThese aircraft are similar to drones, with vertical take-off and landing. We are working on other types of propulsion like the hybrid, electricor, in the longer term, hydrogen. Many avenues are being explored. As for a future supersonic aircraftThis is not a priority at Airbus. Instead, we are working on more sustainable and efficient models.