Airbus labels 787 as the Subsidy-liner
Airbus has wasted no time in sticking the knife into rival US planemaker Boeing following yesterday’s report from the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Appellate Body which, Airbus says, confirms the existence of illegal U.S. subsidies to Boeing.
But Boeing has hit back, rejecting Airbus’ interpretation of the WTO findings.
Airbus said in a statement that Boeing would not have been able to launch the 787 Dreamliner without illegal subsidies.
“The WTO ruling proves it is the most highly subsidised aircraft in the history of aviation,” said Rainer Ohler, Airbus head of public affairs and communications
“Consequently, the B787 – previously known as the Dreamliner – is now to be called the Subsidy-liner (B7aid7).”
The subsidies previously identified by the WTO as “at least $5.3 billion” have been extended by billions of US dollars as a result of yesterday’s decision – resulting in an estimated loss of approximately $45 billion in sales for Airbus, the European manufacturer claims.
Airbus added, “These pervasive subsidies have thoroughly distorted competition within the aviation industry, directly resulting in significant harm to the European aerospace industry.
“The Appellate Body has now spoken in both the Airbus and Boeing cases,” said Ohler.
“Comparing the core claims made by both sides, the net outcome is clear: Boeing’s cash grants are fundamentally illegal, while the system of loans to Airbus by European governments is legal and may continue.”
Airbus said Boeing and the U.S. “now will have six months to implement the WTO decision”.
“Without compliance, massive sanctions will result – conclusively dispelling the U.S. and Boeing’s public smokescreen that the WTO’s findings will have no relevant consequences for Boeing,” Ohler added.
Boeing said in a statement, “The (Appellate Body) decision confirms that in terms of amount, effect and nature, US government support to Boeing is minimal in comparison to the massive European subsidies provided Airbus.
“In sum, the WTO decisions in the two cases establish conclusively and finally that European subsidies competitively disadvantage Boeing and American workers and will continue to do so until launch aid is eliminated.”
Ian Jarrett
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