Airbus hopes to line up Asian aerospace partners for its A3XX programme. It has signed a memorandum of understanding with Taiwan's Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC) and is talking to Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, a long-time Boeing stalwart.
Airbus wants to reduce its exposure to the $12 billion estimated development costs of the airliner by using joint venture partners. It is not known how much AIDC will contribute, but an official estimates $120 million. Nine European firms have agreed in principle to join and Singapore Technologies, South Korea's Samsung and Aviation Industries of China are also possible candidates.
Airbus hopes a commitment by local manufacturers will encourage Asian airlines to order the aircraft. All joint venture commitments are contingent on a decision to launch the A3XX.
Source: Airline Business
