By
Bregier, who is in Asia visiting customers, could not be reached for comment.
Bregier, 56, is credited with stabilising industrial problems at the world's second largest planemaker and overseeing a number of market breakthroughs but has been embroiled in a long-running power battle with Chief Executive Tom Enders.
The sources said Frenchman Bregier had sought a public expression of confidence from the French government, mirroring recent backing from Berlin for German-born Enders, in a row over responsibilities but had failed to secure such a commitment.
Airbus and the French government declined to comment.