Airbus Keeps Digging

Here is an article on the turmoil and latest developments at Airbus. The article paints Streiff as the reformer and EADS-allied Gallois as the status quo. Quote:

"But since then, Mr. Streiff has told EADS managers that he wants greater autonomy in implementing the overhaul -- including pushing ahead with factory closures and layoffs if necessary. Mr. Streiff, with backing from EADS, on Oct. 3 pledged to break "taboos" at Airbus, even throwing open the question of whether Airbus's longtime distribution of work in Europe is the most efficient way of running the business. Splitting work evenly between France and Germany has been a basic rule at Airbus since its creation in 1970."

Also interesting is that de Villepin thinks things ought to be simplified. My guess is that he only wants things simplied to the benefit of France, not to Airbus. If this is an accurate depiction, it appears as if EADS has chosen not to stop digging.