How Airbus corrupted an industry to earn a €3.6 billion fine

On January 31st 2020 the Southwark Crown Court ordered Airbus to pay €3.6 billion in fines and penalties to Britain, France and America after settlement of claims for bribery and corruption.

Three and a half years after the Serious Fraud Office and other law agencies first began investigations into the use of middlemen to facilitate lucrative aircraft deals, Airbus agreed a settlement on outstanding cases in front of presiding judge the Rt Hon Dame Victoria Sharp.

The judgement and associated statement of fact can be found here.

Director of the Serious Fraud Office v Airbus SE-1 Airbus court decision UK – 31/01/2020
Regina the crown v Airbus – Statement of Facts

Media Coverage

29/01/2020 – Airbus agrees 3.6bn euro deal settle – The Times
29/01/2020 – Payout gives Airbus soft landing – The Times
01/02/2020 – Airbus agrees 1bn high court deal to settle corruption claims – The Times
11/02/2020 – How slush funds, ‘success payments’ and lavish hospitality landed Airbus with a €3.6bn fine – Telegraph