Airbus reformer throws in towel

AIRBUS'S top executive has resigned abruptly, just three months after taking the helm in a previous management shake-up and less than a week after introducing a controversial restructuring plan.

Its parent, European Aeronautic Defense & Space Co, said it had accepted the resignation of Christian Streiff, the first outsider to hold the top post at the world's largest commercial jet maker. Co-chief executive Louis Gallois will replace him.

Mr Streiff's departure, which came after he ran foul of politicians in four countries, raised more questions about the future of Airbus and whether it can regain its competitive edge against arch-rival Boeing. With Airbus distracted by production woes, Boeing has been able to outpace Airbus in aircraft sales this year.