Nothing has changed Boeing still receives indirect government support through DARPA and Department of Defense reimbursement of independent R&D - mechanisms for which there is no equivalent in Europe - as well as NASA.
America cheats The EU estimates Boeing has received $18 billion in indirect support since 1992, while admitting "hardly any" benefit. For 2002, the EU puts the benefit at 8.6% of Boeing's turnover - well over the 4% limit in the bilateral agreement.
It makes no difference EADS says any advantage from lower interest rates on the €4.3 billion of government loans on its books works out at only around $100,000 benefit per aircraft delivered.
What it wants Tighter controls on indirect support, elimination of export tax breaks for Boeing and better access for Airbus to the US defence market.
Source: Flight International