Robert Lafontan Awarded ‘Prix de l’Aeronautique et de l’Astronautique’
Toulouse, 29 November 2006
Robert Lafontan, Senior Vice President Engineering, Airbus A380 Programme, has received the prestigious “Prix de l’Aeronautique et de l’Astronautique”, of the French Aeronautical and Astronautical Association, as a distinction for his outstanding achievements in the aeronautics sector. The award was given especially in recognition for his contribution to the conception and development of the A380, the largest commercial aircraft of the 21st century.
Robert Lafontan was presented with the award by Michel Scheller, President of the French Aeronautical and Astronautical Association, during an official ceremony on 28th November at the “Pavillon Dauphine” in Paris.
The French Aeronautical and Astronautical Association has a long history of supporting research and science in the field of aviation and space by providing a platform for members, including well-known engineers, researchers and technicians. It has over the years constituted a privileged meeting point for national and international specialists, allowing for exchange of innovative ideas and the promotion of path leading innovations.
On receipt of the Award, Robert Lafontan said: “I feel very honoured to be rewarded for our work on the A380 by such a prestigious organisation. On behalf of all those who have worked very hard for many years on the development of the plane, I feel very proud to be here today. But I feel even prouder about the technological success of the A380, which is really a great product. As you all know great things are achieved thanks to great teams”.
Robert Lafontan began his career as aeronautical engineer with Dassault Aviation in 1977. He joined Aerospatiale in 1989, assigned to the A320 family programme. In 1996, he became Vice President of the “Large Aircraft” Division (A3XX), before being appointed Head of the A380 Engineering Programme in December 2000.
Airbus is an EADS company.
Contact
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