April 27, 2005

IRKLED:

Air India-Boeing deal irks EU (Hindustan Times, April 27, 2005)

EU's resentment regarding Air India's decision to purchase planes from the US Boeing instead of the European Airbus Industry, has exposed a political tussle between the EU and the US.

Air India has decided to purchase 50 planes from Boeing, investing almost Rs 300 billion in upgrading its fleet.

EU continues its protest, although Air India's final decision is in favour of Boeing. Opposing India succumbing to US pressure, EU is hoping to win over the deal by lobbying for Airbus.

With the US granting an unlimited access to many of its airports, Indian carrier will gain tremendously. The issue was discussed between Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the US Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice during her recent visit to India. Further, US Transportation Secretary, Norman Mineta has supported the signing of the "open sky" policy agreement during his visit to Delhi.


Note how many different themes of the past few years converge in this perfect storm of a story?

Posted by Orrin Judd at April 27, 2005 1:16 PM
Comments

Boy, after this snub, if India thinks they're getting any more European aid the next time a massive tsunami hits their shores, they've got another thing coming.

Posted by: John at April 27, 2005 1:56 PM

I think India and the other Asian nations were appreciative of the over $1BN privately donated by "stingy" US citizens.

Posted by: AWW at April 27, 2005 2:48 PM

Haven't looked at all of today's postings, but MSN said the behemoth (sp) actually flew today.

Posted by: Sandy P. at April 27, 2005 3:10 PM

After reading the earlier posting, I kind of wondered if this isn't payback for Afghanistan and Iraq. Can't really send the troops, but willing to keep our economy going.

W's been doing a lot of legwork.

Posted by: Sandy P. at April 27, 2005 3:20 PM

I'm missing the connection to the "Eric and Julia Roberts" theme. That's what you were referring to, right OJ?

Posted by: jefferson park at April 27, 2005 3:32 PM

Europe thinks it's as scary as Eric but comes across as Julia.

Posted by: oj at April 27, 2005 3:36 PM

You're giving them too much credit: Europe as a woman resembles Martha Graham in her dotage. Or perhaps a 45 year-old streetwalker from New Orleans. Not Julia.

Posted by: jim hamlen at April 27, 2005 3:43 PM

What's the difference?

Posted by: oj at April 27, 2005 3:54 PM

is "irkle" a play on the "erkle" character's name ?
do i get a prize ?

Posted by: cjm at April 27, 2005 6:03 PM

20% of the cost of building the new Airbus jumbo goes to suppliers in the United States.

That is for the standard model with UK engines. American made engines are an option and at least one carrier has ordered them.

Wonder if the USA benefits more than say Spain or even Germany from the A380 program.

Posted by: David at April 27, 2005 7:56 PM

What? Do her teeth scare you?

Posted by: ratbert at April 27, 2005 9:52 PM

OJ,

What's the difference?
Uhh, Europe doesn't have a moose-face? Posted by: at April 28, 2005 12:58 AM
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