It's An Earth Day Miracle!

Boeing and Airbus said Tuesday they will join forces to support the development of next generation air traffic control, to improve fuel efficiency, and reduce emissions and congestion.

The Associated Press reports Scott Carson, Boeing Commercial Aircraft president and CEO, stressed a need to be sure systems being developed in Europe and the United States are fully interoperable.

The news comes after last week's announcement by Airbus it had successfully tested an ADS-B-based air traffic technology, which could allow airliners on oceanic routes more flexibility to climb when necessary to optimize fuel burn.

Carson was also quick to clarify for reporters in Geneva that this cooperation will not come at the expense of competition between the manufacturers. "You can rest assured that we will continue to compete aggressively," the Boeing chief said.

Not to be outdone, Airbus CEO Tom Enders added "We need to cooperate where possible for the good of the environment."

The development also does not spell the end of the fight over alleged subsidies of both manufacturers by their host governments underway before the World Trade Organization. Enders told reporters that Airbus will not seek a permanent settlement with Boeing until after the WTO delivers its final ruling later this year.

FMI: www.boeing.com, www.airbus.com