Jean Pierson, former boss of Airbus, is dead
Jean Pierson died at the age of 80. He had managed Airbus from 1985 to 1998 and succeeded in raising the group to the rank of world leader in aeronautics ahead of its rival Boeing.
Jean Pierson, former patron of Airbus, died in Nice in the Alpes-Maritimes on Wednesday, November 3, 2021 at the age of 80. The aeronautical group confirmed his death on Thursday.
Diploma from the Higher Institute of Aeronautics and Space in 1963, Jean Pierson will make his entire career at Airbus, succeeding in climbing all the levels.
Historical leader of the group, he had notably participated in the Concorde program. Appointed administrator-manager of the consortium Airbus Industry in 1985 until 1998, he was the main decision-maker for the launch of the A380 program.
Tributes have multiplied since the announcement of his death to salute the one who largely participated in the success of the European aircraft manufacturer, to the point of making him the great rival of the American Boeing.
His physicality of rugby player and his true speaking, earned him the nickname “Bear of the Pyrenees”. A strong personality that will allow Airbus to pass in front of the American Boeing.
At 57, the CEO-VRP of Airbus is bowing out after having sold the European aircraft to the whole world.
Knight of the Legion of Honor, officer of the National Order of Merit, Jean Pierson received the Icare Prize in 1999. Prize awarded by specialized journalists to recognize the commitment of a personality in the aeronautical field.
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