Materials & Processes at Airbus - ready for the next challenge

The announcement of the launch of a new program for the “Middle-of-the-market” spectrum is expected within the next few months. Still it is not decided how such an aircraft could look like from an airframe point of view. However the outcome will be, Airbus is prepared to react to all challenges with the appropriate material and process selection for the best eco-efficient technology mix. Major enabler could be the further enhancement of composite technologies, where Thermoplastics may play a vital role. Dust-less assembly technologies, covering various welding- and bonding aspects, are also considered as key technology bricks for a significant improvement of manufacturing lead time and structural efficiency. Apart from the wing- and fuselage scope, various promising M&P approaches are being followed in the pylon- and engine integration area. The scope of advanced technologies will be supplemented by technology bricks which have been matured in the Airbus Divisions Helicopters and Defense & Space, which are now ready to be implemented in the Commercial environment.