30 Jun 2009
A400 - wings and politics.
Ben has some interesting things to say about the way large entities like Boeing and EDS are structured.
Look for a moment at the A400 fiasco. The RAF wants and needs the C17, more now than ever before with a seriously compromised airlift capability. The early C130 series aircraft are on their last legs, we don’t have enough ‘Js’ to replace them. Talking to those who have operated and administered the C130 and the C17 provides a measure of both aircraft against the in theatre requirements. Apparently the C17 in greater numbers and the ‘Js’ would do the lot! A matter of opinion perhaps but my source was well qualified to comment. Despite Boeing offering very significant inducements to help them keep the C17 line open the A400 was chosen and for the usual reason - politics. The threat of job losses in the UK Airbus wing manufacturing (in the news) being one of them and the political implications for the government in power.
This issue is dominating at the moment with the Chinese ramping up their wing manufacturing capability and EADS both supporting and flagging the efforts to apply pressure. Politics in the heart of manufacturing.
Telegraph
Thomas Enders, Airbus president, said the Chinese are “very eager and very ambitious” and likely to catch up with Western levels of productivity at Airbus sites in China within two to three years.
“Right now the UK is the supplier of wings for the Airbus family but that doesn’t mean the Chinese can’t build a good wing,” he told the Telegraph. “If we underestimate our Chinese friends, there will be a problem. Europe is not the only play in town.
Who’s interest would it be in to have large portions of its aircraft manufactured in China? Who would be forced to follow? Where would the job losses be reflected? In the end, who would have the money to fly aboard the products?
One enormous circle of politics and prosperity that needs balance and no breaks to keep it functional. Who do we trust with the circle, politicians of course. I will be voting for change then praying for competence just like I always do. Another forlorn hope?
































