Airbus to Reduce Nearly 700 Positions in Germany Without Layoffs

Airbus has announced a significant restructuring within its defense and space division, impacting almost 700 jobs in Germany. However, the company has assured that there will be no layoffs as part of this process. The decision comes amid ongoing challenges in the aerospace sector, prompting management to streamline operations in various locations.

According to the works council, the latest announcement indicates that 689 positions will be affected in Germany, while a total of 1,354 jobs will be cut across the United Kingdom, France, and Spain. This reduction is smaller than previously anticipated, as the company had projected a potential loss of up to 2,500 jobs in this sector by mid-2026. Currently, the total number of job cuts has been revised to 2,043, predominantly within administrative and aerospace roles.

The impacted sites in Germany include Ottobrunn near Munich, Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance, Manching near Ingolstadt, Bremen, and Backnang, as well as Ulm. Although some locations may face more significant reductions, the exact figures could change pending ongoing negotiations between management and employee representatives.

Thomas Pretzl, the chairperson of the works council, expressed concerns regarding the timing and rationale behind the job cuts, particularly given the existing workload within the organization. He criticized the frequent restructuring efforts and called for improved representation of German managers within the aerospace leadership, urging both federal and state governments to support job retention and bolster technologies associated with the industry.

Airbus's defense and space sector employs approximately 35,000 people across Europe. While the military aircraft and cybersecurity segments continue to perform well, the space division has faced significant write-downs in the first half of the year due to increased competition and technological advancements. Notably, SpaceX has emerged as the largest satellite operator globally, posing challenges to traditional satellite markets, which have seen a decline in demand.

In response to these pressures, Airbus is restructuring its aerospace division to grant more autonomy to its individual sectors and simplify its organizational framework. This approach aims to enhance efficiency and adaptability in a rapidly changing market.

As the company navigates these changes, the focus remains on ensuring stability for its workforce while addressing the competitive landscape of the aerospace industry. The upcoming discussions between management and labor representatives will be crucial in shaping the future of employment within the company.