Meet Fei Song

Define your job title in one sentence

My job is to assess and ensure the structural integrity of the A220 wing to withstand repeated stress and wear over time and to prevent cracks or failures that could affect the safety of the aircraft.  

What’s one thing that makes your job exciting or special?

One of the things that make my job exciting and special is when I travel on an Airbus single-aisle aircraft, I always make it a point to sit near the wing and tell my family and friends about the specific components I have worked on and helped design. It’s incredibly rewarding to see my work in action, knowing that it directly contributes to the safety and performance of the aircraft and the comfort of passengers and crew - being part of Airbus gives me a profound sense of purpose as I understand the impact of every decision I make. There’s a deep responsibility that comes with knowing that the designs I contribute to ensure not just the success of the aircraft, but also the lives of those who depend on it. Every day is a reminder of how important our work is and the trust that millions of passengers place in our designs. 

What inspired you to join Airbus? 

My inspiration to join Airbus comes from both of my parents, who started their careers as engineers. Growing up, I was always fascinated by the way they could design and build solutions that directly impacted people’s everyday lives. Their passion left a lasting impression on me, making me realise how powerful engineering can be in shaping the world. After completing my studies at the University of Cambridge, I found an opportunity at Airbus to work as a Structural Analysis Engineer on the A320neo programme. The chance to contribute to such a cutting-edge project, in a company renowned for its innovation and impact on global aviation, felt like the perfect fit. I knew immediately that this was the path I wanted to pursue, not just for the technical challenge, but for the opportunity to make a real difference in how people connect and travel around the world.

Is there something that surprised you about working for Airbus?

I was truly amazed by the sheer number of failsafe systems and structures built into every aircraft, designed to protect passengers and people on the ground even in the most unlikely events. It’s incredible to see how every detail is carefully considered to ensure safety and it really fills me with pride to be part of Airbus, where safety is always our top priority. It’s a reminder of how seriously we take our responsibility and how every role, big or small, contributes to something truly meaningful. 

Explain what you do in simple terms

As a Senior Fatigue & Damage Tolerance Engineer, I assess the structural integrity of the aircraft under cyclic loading over time and develop optimised design solutions to ensure its durability, while also providing airlines with cost effective maintenance plans for detecting and repairing structure damage. 

How does your role contribute to Airbus’ mission or the success of its products?

My role directly supports Airbus’ mission by enhancing the repairability, maintainability and safety of our aircraft. Through detailed analysis of structural integrity, I identify potential risks and develop solutions that ensure our products are durable, reliable and safe. This contributes to Airbus’ commitment to delivering innovative, sustainable and high quality aircrafts, while also ensuring operational efficiency and ease of maintenance throughout the lifecycle of our aircraft. 

What’s the most innovative project you’ve worked on at Airbus?

As the leader of the Fatigue & Damage Tolerance Team, I led the design of spoilers for single-aisle aircraft using Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM) technology, delivering high structural performance while enabling cost-effective manufacturing. Collaborating with a specialised manufacturing partner, we developed a solution that reduced recurring costs and energy consumption compared to traditional methods. 

The redesigned spoilers, manufactured using advanced automation and out of autoclave processes, became the first of their kind to fly on a commercial aircraft, entering service in 2021. This milestone reflects the success of our design efforts and the reliability of the product in meeting modern aviation demands. 

In an industry defined by innovation, this project demonstrates how forward-thinking design and collaboration can drive progress in aerospace development. It highlights Airbus’, particularly Airbus UK’s, dedication to advancing pioneering wing technologies and maintaining its position as a global leader in aerospace, paving the way for next-generation aircraft.

How has Airbus supported your career growth or personal development?

Airbus has been a great place to work for with lots of development opportunities and trust in people’s capabilities. Since the beginning of my career, I was working closely with our suppliers through a secondment, which gave me the great opportunities to understand the ways of work and supplier culture. I was able to take advantage of this unique experience to lead suppliers through A320neo certification activities, overcoming many technical challenges. 

My favourite years in Airbus so far have been when I was working as a Lead Fatigue & Damage Tolerance Engineer in the A320 incremental development team. I was able to develop my leadership skills through leading multi-functional teams. It was eye opening for me that there are so many roles outside the Engineering function at Airbus. It gave me new aspirations for my career.

How has your career evolved since you joined Airbus?

I began my career at Airbus as a Fatigue & Damage Tolerance Engineer in the design office, where I developed expertise in technical analysis. I gained approval and authorisation delegation from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), allowing me to sign off design justification documents and ensure compliance with regulations. After 10 years working on the A320 programme, I transitioned to the A220 programme as a Senior Fatigue & Damage Tolerance Engineer. 

Throughout my career in this technical domain, I’ve had the opportunity to mentor many young engineers, guiding them not just on technical aspects but also in areas like professional development and achieving engineering chartership. It's been incredibly rewarding to share my experiences with them and watch them unlock their potential as they advance in their careers. This mentoring has also played a key role in my own professional growth. In recent years, I’ve taken on additional responsibilities as a line manager, where I’m directly accountable for the development and performance of my team.

What’s one technical skill you’ve developed here that you’re especially proud of?

One technical skill I’ve developed and continually refine is problem-solving. Whether I’m designing a new structural component or updating an aircraft maintenance manual, I embrace the challenges that come my way. They keep me engaged and prevent complacency. As an engineer, I’ve learnt to break complex tasks into manageable sections, allowing me to tackle problems programmatically and find effective solutions more efficiently.

Is there a specific project or moment you’re particularly proud of? Why?

One of the most memorable moments for me was witnessing the A320neo’s first flight in 2014. Joining the programme just two years after my graduation, I was thrilled to contribute to the development of such a groundbreaking aircraft. Every day was an opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. Being part of the team that made an already exceptional aircraft even better was incredibly rewarding and it remains a highlight of my career. 

What advice would you give to someone starting a career in aerospace?

Stay curious and take initiative! The aerospace industry is filled with endless opportunities. The key to finding your path is exploring the different fields within it. By immersing yourself in what others do and broadening your understanding, you’ll not only uncover where your true passions lie but also shape both your short-term goals and long-term aspirations in aerospace.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career at Airbus?

If you are considering a career at Airbus, you’re entering a world of innovation and global impact. The company leads in aerospace technology, shaping the future of air travel. While change can be slow, especially due to strict safety and regulatory standards, it’s because every new development is carefully tested and built on trust. If you’re passionate about engineering and problem-solving, Airbus offers a rewarding environment to grow and contribute to something meaningful, balancing innovation with responsibility. 

What would you say to someone who doesn’t think they “fit” in aerospace?

If you’re wondering if aerospace is the right fit, remember that Airbus is so much more than just planes. While our foundation is in aerospace, we’re a global company with diverse opportunities in areas like business development, financial controls, IT, communications and more. At Airbus, your unique skills and passions can thrive, with endless opportunities to grow through hands-on experience, online learning or expert-led training. Whatever your background, you can make a meaningful impact and help shape the future alongside a team that values innovation, creativity and diverse talent.

If you could give one piece of advice, what would it be?

Don’t be afraid to fail. At Airbus, failure is often a stepping stone to growth. Every challenge, mistake or setback offers a valuable lesson that helps you improve and become better at what you do. Embrace the learning process, take risks and see failures as opportunities to innovate and refine your skills. It’s through pushing boundaries and learning from our mistakes that we truly advance in our careers.

What do you appreciate most about Airbus as a workplace?

What I appreciate most about Airbus as a workplace is its genuinely inclusive culture. As an international company,  Airbus continuously evolves to embrace diversity across all backgrounds, including LGBT+, disability, or religion. The Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) create a supportive community where employees with shared interests or backgrounds can connect. More importantly, these groups help raise awareness among all employees, fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming environment for everyone to thrive in.

Which Airbus value resonates with you, and why?

Respect is a value that resonates with me, especially in a diverse and innovative environment like Airbus. Respecting people from different backgrounds goes beyond recognising differences. It’s about appreciating how those differences contribute to new perspectives, ideas and solutions. 

Respect doesn’t mean we always agree, but it does mean listening, valuing each other’s viewpoints and engaging in constructive dialogue. Even through disagreement, we grow stronger, fostering inclusion and driving innovation. 

How does Airbus support you in maintaining work-life balance?

After returning from maternity leave following the birth of my first child, I requested to work part-time to spend more time with my daughter. Airbus was incredibly supportive of my decision. Both my manager and the HR Business Partner were understanding and flexible, allowing me to balance my family responsibilities with my career. The hybrid working arrangement has been particularly beneficial, enabling me to maintain a healthy work-life balance while continuing to thrive professionally.

What motivates you to keep growing in your career?

What motivates me to keep growing in my career is the opportunity to be a role model for young women, especially for my two daughters. As a mother, I want to show them that they can achieve anything they set their minds to, even in fields like engineering where women, especially from minority groups, are still underrepresented. There are fewer female leaders and this drives me to push forward, not just for my own career but to help pave the way for others. Knowing that my progress could inspire other young women to pursue their passions and take on leadership roles gives me the drive to keep growing and breaking barriers. 

What’s one message you’d like to share with the next generation of aerospace professionals?

Believe that you can do it. 

Do you have a favourite quote or mantra that inspires you in your work?

I constantly remind myself to “lean in” at work. As a woman in engineering, I believe it’s crucial to embrace every opportunity with confidence and determination. Society and the workplace have evolved, and today, women are empowered to excel in both their careers and personal lives. At Airbus, I have found a supportive environment that not only encourages diversity but also fosters the growth and success of women in engineering. It’s a place where I can pursue my professional ambitions while also balancing a fulfilling life outside of work. 

One word to describe your experience at Airbus? Which word would sum up your life at Airbus?

Enriching.

What 3 words define Airbus for you?

Safety. Excellence. Originality

Career path at Airbus:

2012-2017 Fatigue and Damage Tolerance Engineer, A320neo & A321neo 

Airbus Commercial Aircraft, Bristol

2017-2023 Lead Fatigue and Damage Tolerance Engineer, A321 XLR

Airbus Commercial Aircraft, Bristol

2023-2025 Head of Analysis Skill Team, Senior Fatigue and Damage Tolerance Engineer, A220

Airbus Commercial Aircraft, Bristol