Airbus has named Lars Wagner, currently chief executive of MTU Aero Engines AG, as the next chief executive of its commercial aircraft business.

Wagner will officially assume the role on January 1, 2026, succeeding Christian Scherer, who will remain in post until the end of 2025.

To ensure a smooth handover, Wagner will join Airbus in November 2025 and transition into the role alongside Scherer, whose leadership caps a four-decade career at Airbus, including multiple senior executive positions.

Currently based in Munich, Wagner has served as chief executive of MTU Aero Engines since January 2023. He first joined MTU in 2015 and has held key roles including chief operating officer and executive vice president responsible for OEM operations. His earlier career includes several management positions within Airbus, with postings in Bremen, Hamburg and Toulouse.

Wagner holds degrees in mechanical and aeronautical engineering, as well as an MBA.

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