Matthieu Lys

Matthieu Lys is an innovation leader in the European space industry, currently driving innovation initiatives at Airbus Defence and Space. A graduate of IMT Atlantique (2002), ISAE-SUPAERO (2004) and holding a certification in Management of Technological Innovation from École Polytechnique Executive Education, he brings over 20 years of experience in aerospace.
 

Combining strategic foresight with deep technical knowledge, he has supported with his team the development of over 50 innovation projects now embedded into Airbus Defence and Space products, translating disruptive ideas into operational solutions. He also has more than 500 hours of flight testing on a wide range of Airbus aircraft, reinforcing his credibility in systems performance and safety.
 
In parallel with his corporate role, Matthieu actively contributes to scientific expeditions that bridge space and environmental research. He participated in an expedition to the Arctic (Svalbard) in 2024 alongside French explorer Jean-Louis Étienne, and is preparing a new mission to Greenland in 2025, focusing on glaciology, marine biodiversity, and the deployment of satellite technologies in polar environments.
 
His leadership reflects a strong commitment to sustainability, international cooperation, and public engagement. Positioned at the intersection of industry, science, and civil society, Matthieu Lys is a driving force behind innovations that serve both planetary resilience and technological excellence.