Airbus Plans to Stop Using Google Cloud Over Data Security Concerns

Airbus, one of the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers, has announced plans to end its use of certain Google cloud storage services, citing concerns over data security and potential access by United States authorities.

The European aerospace giant confirmed that it intends to move part of its digital infrastructure away from Google’s data centers, arguing that sensitive corporate and industrial data could be exposed under U.S. laws that allow government access to information stored by American technology companies.

Concerns Over Data Sovereignty

Airbus stated that its decision is driven by the need to protect strategic and sovereign data, particularly information related to aircraft manufacturing, business operations, and internal management systems.

The company is now seeking European-based cloud providers that comply fully with both technical and legal requirements under European Union regulations.

“We need independent data infrastructure,” said Airbus’ Vice President for Technology. “Some of our data is strategic at both national and European levels. We want it to remain under European control.”

Google AI Under Scrutiny

The move comes amid growing scrutiny of Google in the United States over its artificial intelligence system, Gemini.

Legal complaints allege that in October 2023, Google integrated Gemini into services such as Gmail, Chat, and Meet, granting it potential access to emails, documents, and video communications without explicit user consent. Google has strongly denied these claims.

Although Airbus did not directly link its decision to the lawsuit, the controversy has intensified concerns about data privacy and AI access to sensitive information.

Transition to European Cloud Providers

Airbus currently relies on Google Workspace for various internal operations. The company is preparing to migrate large volumes of data to alternative cloud infrastructure based in Europe.

According to Airbus, there is an 80% chance that a European provider will be selected to host its data securely.

The company plans to issue a public tender worth more than $58.5 million in January 2026 to finalize the transition.

Industry Context and Competition

Airbus has led global aircraft deliveries for six consecutive years. However, in early December 2025, the company acknowledged that Boeing could overtake it this year, partly due to strong political and commercial backing from U.S. President Donald Trump.

In May 2025, Qatar Airways signed a $200 billion deal with Boeing, including the purchase of 160 aircraft, following Trump’s visit to Qatar.

Despite Boeing’s gains, Airbus remains dominant in deliveries. In 2024, Airbus delivered 766 aircraft and received over 870 orders, compared to Boeing’s 348 aircraft sold, down from 528 in 2023.