Airbus backs down on return-to-office after protests, sources say

Airbus has softened its push for employees to return to the office full-time, following protests from unions, including strikes in Spanish facilities, according to sources. Spanish workers have been on intermittent strikes since July, and there have been occasional protests in France and Britain over the company's plan to require white-collar staff to work on-site four days a week by September, up from the current three.

Now, managers can allow staff to continue working from home an average of two days per week, effectively halting the plan for a mandatory one-day limit, sources said. Despite this shift, Airbus maintains its goal of increased on-site presence to enhance collaboration, knowledge sharing, and decision-making. CEO Guillaume Faury had previously emphasized the importance of in-person interactions as the industry faces high demand and introduces new staff.

The decision to ease the return-to-office policy reflects employee feedback and aims for a more gradual transition. The controversy highlights tensions within Airbus's Spanish unit and the broader struggle to attract younger employees who prioritize work-life balance over traditional career ladders.