Publication: Business Report Date: 2006-01-09 Reporter: Sapa Reporter:

Boeing's Resurgence 'of Concern' for Airbus

 

Publication 

Business Report
Date

2006-01-09

Reporter

 Sapa

Web Link

www.busrep.co.za

 

Paris - Boeing's resurgence is an area of concern for European plane maker Airbus, the head of parent company EADS said on Monday.

But Noel Forgeard, joint CEO of European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company, would not confirm that Boeing last year reclaimed its lead in orders that it lost to Airbus in 2001.

Airbus, which is 80 percent owned by EADS, is due to announce its 2005 orders on January 17, but has already said the contest was close. Boeing last week announced it took 1 002 net orders in 2005.

Forgeard nevertheless said Boeing's resurgence was among "areas of concern" facing Airbus, singling out sales of the Boeing 777, which overtook those of the rival A340 last year, he said.

"The 777 took a preponderant market share in relation to our A340 family," Forgeard told a news conference. He did not elaborate on order figures.

"One year doesn't reverse a trend, but it's nonetheless a point of real concern," he said.

Orders for the Airbus A340 outstripped those of its US rival in 2004.

"We must not take our eyes off the return of Boeing," Forgeard said. "It's a strong return, particularly on sales, with some very aggressive tactics."

Forgeard, who shares leadership of EADS with German Thomas Enders, also hinted at continuing support for an EADS takeover of French defence electronics company Thales *1.

"I'm not in the habit of changing my assessments," said Forgeard, who championed an earlier takeover plan that fell afoul of German public opposition.

With acknowledgement to Sapa and Business Report.


*1  Beware of a takeover of EADS by French defence electronics company Thales.