Airbus’ delay will benefit taxpayers
Regarding “Woes May Have Airbus in a Stall,” Oct. 9:
When the gargantuan A380 double-decker jetliner was rolled out, I wondered how this great white elephant would affect international airports and the cities in which they are located.
Before Airbus started announcing delays, executives at the world’s international airports expressed delight at the prospects of the A380’s arrival and rolled out plans to remodel their runways and terminals at a cost of billions of dollars -- provided by clueless taxpayers, to be sure.
Los Angeles International Airport was no exception to the plan.
Now, the A380’s delivery will be delayed by about two years while Boeing Co., the only competitor in the skies, moves forward with its Dreamliner, a replacement for the venerable 747. This new jet will be capable of using existing airport runways and terminals.
That means that the A380 is not a trend in passenger jet design. In reality, this white elephant will probably go the way of the Spruce Goose.
For taxpayers who were about to be fleeced, you can remove your oxygen masks.
David Ohman
Irvine
Inside the business of entertainment
The Wide Shot brings you news, analysis and insights on everything from streaming wars to production — and what it all means for the future.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
