Many who now seek an upper hand for U.S.-based businesses argue that any potential selection of Airbus could cut domestic jobs and adversely affect our own industrial base.
The facts, however, paint a different picture. Both Boeing and Airbus are global organizations, building parts and components for aircraft throughout the world. About 43 percent of the components for Boeing's 787 aircraft are built outside of the United States. Airbus works with a number of international partners, as well. As author Tom Friedman points out, the world is rapidly "flattening."
In total, more than 50 percent of both Boeing and Airbus' planned manufacturing of aerial tankers would be performed within our borders. The playing field is level, from even the most ardent nationalist perspectives. As such, both sides should be allowed to develop the most competitive bids possible without any external or political influence.
Opponents of a free and open competitive bidding environment seem resolved to a defeatist and protectionist mentality. In contrast, I believe that competition brings out the best in U.S. enterprises and should be embraced. Global engagement has numerous risks but presents exponential opportunities for our domestic industries, employees, consumers and national well-being both today and tomorrow.
Free and fair trade must be a two-way street with clearly marked rules for the road. Our nation has learned that when one party does not abide by its own trade obligations, it undermines the profound economic and societal benefits for all. Members of both our political parties must reconcile that it is ultimately the best course of action for our nation to lead by example on this front.
I've always believed in free trade and open competition, and now that I'm on several multinational company boards and work as a consultant, I continue to believe, as I have for more than 2 1/2 decades of public service, in free trade and competitive bidding.
Free trade cannot and will not flourish globally when it remains politically expedient to disregard its principles here at home. While it may be good politics for a handful of individuals seeking short-term gain, it is most certainly bad policy for the nation and our continued standing in the world.