Britannist

Airbus - the Franco-German controlled airline - has suffered another blow as British Airways opts to buy from Boeing (American).

The EU backs Airbus - a consortium comprising mostly Germany and France (37.5% each). British Aerospace recently sold its 20% share in the struggling Airbus project to concentrate more on the American market. However the UK remains a partner. Spain retains a 5% share in Airbus.

When the ugly Airbus 'Super-jumbo' was launched in Toulouse, the EU hierarchy were out in force to give the loss-making eyesore their full support. Blair turned up for the official photocall. Meddlesome Mandelson also attented and enjoyed the event.

Airbus have not managed to secure the number of orders for the 'super-jumpbo' that they had expected. Few are surprised at that.

There's more on Airbus not winning the first British Airways aircraft order for six years at:

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http://news.independent.co.uk/busine...cle2248795.ece