After eight years in the role, Bruno Even is stepping down as CEO of Airbus Helicopters on April 1 and will be succeeded by Matthieu Louvot, who spent the past two years as the French OEM’s executive v-p of strategy. Announcing the shift, Airbus explained that Even had “decided to leave the company to pursue his next personal and professional objectives.” Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury said that “under his tenure, the [helicopter] division expanded its product portfolio, transformed its industrial system, and has been placed on a sustainable and profitable growth trajectory.” Even navigated Airbus Helicopters through the service entry of the five-blade H145 in 2021 and the H160 in 2024, as well as the 2025 launch of the H135-derived twin-engined H140. The latter is expected to enter service in 2028. Louvot has held a number of management positions since joining Airbus Helicopters in 2010. These include executive v-p of customer support and services and executive v-p of programs. Louvot’s “broad knowledge of the division’s operational and strategic priorities will enable a smooth transition,” concluded Faury.

Harlan Simpkins became president and CEO of the Canadian Business Aviation Association (CBAA) on January 12. His leadership experience includes more than two decades in global flight operations, regulatory compliance, and aircraft certification. Recently, he led aircraft flight and test operations for De Havilland Aircraft of Canada, and he also previously served as chief customer liaison pilot at Bombardier for several years. In the announcement from CBAA, the association specifically noted Simpkins’ “strong background in leadership and a deep understanding of the business aviation industry.” It added, “He brings a proven track record of collaboration with regulators and industry stakeholders, driving operational excellence, safety, and long-term value for the business aviation community.”