EADS won't appeal tanker decision

MOBILE, Alabama (WALA) - The European plane-building company that lost out on a $35 billion refueling tanker deal isn't appealing the Air Force's decision to go with Chicago-based Boeing. Mobile Mayor Same Jones said the decision by EADS is bitter sweet.

Despite the disappointment, the Mayor Jones said the city is moving.

After years of turbulence, it appears the tanker saga has ended.

EADS said Friday it won't ask the Pentagon to review the decision to have Boeing build nearly 200 giant airborne refueling tankers.

Mobile Mayor Sam Jones calls the news disappointing but not discouraging.

The mayor said the price factor is a reason why EADS isn't protesting.

Jones said the decision opens the door for other options, other competitions.

Despite Boeing's winning bid, Jones said EADS is still on the local radar.

"We're still talking to EADS about other opportunities if there are other opportunities, even building other air craft," said Jones.

Mayor Jones said the cities contract with EADS does not expire until December and $25 million in incentives has been set aside. He is confident other opportunities will surface and calls Brookley Field an asset.

Had EADS won the tanker contract, it was going to manufacture tankers at Brookley.

"You will see it developed, but you won't see us in the market to sale it," added Jones.

The mayor said with Brookley's access to the water, interstate and the longest running runway in the country, he's sure the city will land another deal.

Mayor Jones said other projects are in the works, that could attract businesses to Mobile, including projects in the aerospace industry.