Airbus has announced that Lars Wagner, currently Chief Executive Officer of MTU Aero Engines AG, will succeed Christian Scherer as CEO of its Commercial Aircraft business, effective January 1, 2026. Wagner will also join the Airbus Executive Committee as part of this transition.
To ensure continuity and a seamless handover, Wagner will join Airbus in November 2025, two months ahead of officially taking over the role. Until the end of 2025, Christian Scherer will continue to lead the Commercial Aircraft business, concluding an impressive career of more than 40 years at Airbus, during which he held numerous senior leadership positions.
Wagner brings extensive experience in the aerospace sector. Since January 2023, he has served as CEO of MTU Aero Engines AG, based in Munich. His career at MTU began in 2015, where he held prominent positions including Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President responsible for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) operations. Prior to his tenure at MTU, Wagner held several management roles at Airbus, working at key sites in Bremen, Hamburg and Toulouse.
Academically, Wagner holds a degree in mechanical and aeronautical engineering, alongside an MBA, equipping him with a strong technical and strategic foundation for his future role.
His appointment marks a return to Airbus and signals a new chapter for the company’s Commercial Aircraft division, as it navigates the challenges and opportunities of an evolving global aviation market. Wagner’s experience in both engine manufacturing and aircraft production is expected to bring valuable perspective to Airbus’ leadership team.
