Airbus’ Greg Ombach Discusses The Breakthrough Technologies Transforming Aerospace
A few weeks ago we had the pleasure of welcoming Airbus’ SVP and Group Head of Disruptive Research & Technology, Greg Ombach, to Acubed. During his visit to Silicon Valley, we discussed the critical role of transformative technologies–like the work we’re pursuing at Acubed–in shaping the next generation of aviation and reinforcing Airbus’ industry leadership.
What does your role as Group Head of Disruptive Research & Technology entail at Airbus?
My focus is on shaping the future of aerospace by identifying, developing and scaling breakthrough technologies that keep Airbus at the forefront of the industry. Disruptive innovation across AI, autonomy, electrification, quantum computing and connected aircraft is key to ensuring long-term leadership. This role is about exploring new ideas and executing them at scale, ensuring innovation translates into real business impact. Strategic investments in transformative technologies will define the next generation of aviation while strengthening Airbus’ position as a leader in the future of flight.
What are Airbus’ biggest opportunities and challenges today?
The most significant opportunity lies in defining the next generation of aircraft while achieving the industry’s commitment to net zero by 2050. With the global fleet expected to double in the coming decades, accelerating innovation around sustainability, safety and efficiency is essential. Technologies such as hybrid propulsion, smart automation, connected aircraft and quantum will be central to making aviation cleaner and more advanced. The challenge is ensuring these innovations transition from research to real-world implementations while balancing economic and regulatory constraints with our innovation and sustainability objectives.
How do you see the evolution of AI impacting Airbus?
AI is transforming every part of our business, from aircraft design and manufacturing to operations and passenger experience. It enhances engineering through generative design, improves quality control with computer vision and optimises operations with predictive maintenance and automation. AI also plays a fundamental role in the future of autonomy in flight. The rate of change is exponential—companies that fail to integrate AI and GenAI across their operations will lose competitiveness. At Airbus, AI is embedded strategically to drive efficiency, unlock new capabilities and define the future of aerospace.
Why is it valuable for Airbus to leverage Airbus’ Silicon Valley-based innovation center to accelerate research and innovation for the global company?
Acubed provides Airbus with a strategic foothold in one of the world’s most dynamic innovation ecosystems. Silicon Valley offers access to top-tier talent, breakthrough technologies and cross-industry collaboration that accelerates innovation. This environment allows for rapid testing, validation and scaling of new solutions in AI, autonomy, quantum computing and digital communication. Acubed is more than a research and innovation centre—it is an accelerator that brings speed and agility to Airbus’ strategy.
Why are Acubed’s initiatives important to explore? What’s the potential value?
Innovation is only valuable if it translates into tangible business impact. Acubed’s initiatives focus on AI, digital engineering, computer vision and smart automation, all of which contribute to improving aircraft production, safety and efficiency. Each project is designed with a clear path to integration into Airbus’ core business. Having a business sponsor for every initiative ensures a seamless transition from innovation to implementation, delivering measurable value and competitive advantage.
What focus area of Acubed’s are you most excited about?
Acubed stands out for its ability to deliver real impact in months, not years. The digital transformation projects—whether in GenAI, smart automation or connected aircraft—set a benchmark for how innovation should happen. What makes Acubed unique is its approach to cross-industry collaboration, bringing proven technologies from automotive, consumer electronics and cloud computing into aerospace. This ability to adopt and adapt best-in-class innovations accelerates Airbus’ capability to integrate cutting-edge advancements at scale.
What additional focus areas are you keen for Acubed to explore?
Acubed must continue accelerating Airbus’ digital transformation by focusing on the next wave of emerging technologies. Quantum computing, Web3 and next-generation AI are key areas that will redefine how operations are optimised, aircraft efficiency is improved and passenger experience is enhanced. Staying ahead in these fields ensures Airbus continues to set the standard for digital aerospace innovation.
What does success look like for Acubed?
Success means translating innovations into Airbus’ core business, creating competitive advantage and delivering new competencies. It is not just about developing cutting-edge technologies, but ensuring they scale into real-world applications that enhance Airbus’ products, services and operations. Beyond technological advancements, success also lies in creating new digital business models that drive long-term value. Leveraging AI, connectivity and smart automation, the focus is on unlocking new revenue streams, optimising efficiency, improving safety and redefining how Airbus interacts with its customers and partners. Acubed is designed to challenge the status quo, accelerate progress and drive meaningful change in the industry.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Innovation is shifting from traditional corporate R&D to external labs and startup ecosystems. Acubed is not just about exploring what’s next—it’s about accelerating what’s possible today and redefining the industry’s future.
If you’re interested in joining our team and building the future of flight, do reach out via our open roles here.