Airbus Soars Back to Profit in 2021 at a Record €4.2 Billion

Paris — European aerospace giant Airbus posted record profits in 2021 after steep loses in the previous two years.

Net profit rose to €4.2 billion ($4.8 billion) thanks to an increase in aircraft deliveries and cost reduction measures, the Toulouse-based company said in its annual earnings report on Thursday.

In 2019 and 2020, Airbus lost billions - first due to a big fine over a bribery scandal and then due to the industry-wide disruptions caused by the pandemic.

Shareholders are to receive a dividend of €1.50 per share.

This year, Airbus wants to significantly ramp up production again after cuts made during the pandemic. The aim is to deliver around 720 commercial aircraft after 611 last year.

Earnings before interest, taxes and special effects (EBIT) should reach €5.5 billion in 2022, Airbus said.

Last year it nearly tripled to €4.9 billion, exceeding forecasts by the company and analysts.

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