Airbus vs Boeing: How European Industrial Policy Created an Aerospace Leader

Were it not for their seatbelts, they would likely have been sucked out of the plane. It later transpired that the plug which sealed the exit door was missing four critical bolts that held it in place.

Airbus is an example of successful industrial policy and the rare European company that is better than its American rival.

The article contrasts Airbus's engineering-driven, collaborative approach with Boeing's shift toward financialization and cost-cutting.

The piece explores how Airbus's success was built through government support, cross-border collaboration, and a focus on engineering excellence rather than shareholder value maximization.