The Facts
On Wednesday, Qatar Airways and Airbus announced they have reached an "amicable and mutually agreeable settlement" ending an 18-month dispute over the safety of A350 jets and averting a potentially damaging UK court trial.
Safety concerns over Europe’s premier long-haul jet caused Qatar Airways to ground Airbus 350s citing that the craft’s fuselages were “degrading at an accelerated rate.” The concerns spiraled into a highly-unusual public dispute worth $2B.
The Spin
Narrative A
There is a mischaracterization of non-structural surface degradation on Airbus’ A350. This is leading to unfounded questions about the craft’s safety. Safety is Airbus’ top priority, and any perceived flaws with the jet are merely cosmetic. Calling the safety of Airbus’ craft into question is irresponsible and a threat to international protocols on safety matters.
Narrative B
Despite what Airbus may say, the issues present in the Airbus A350 are more than "cosmetic." The crafts have an underlying issue that needs to be addressed, and the damage to the fuselage is not common for standard aircraft. Qatar Airways cannot risk flying a jet with safety concerns.