U.S. seeks balance amid pleas for rapid stimulus

摘要

Varying priorities among U.S lawmakers in Washington, D.C. threatened to delay a stimulus package promised last month by the federal government for airlines and aerospace companies, most notably Boeing and its suppliers. At press time, Congress still hadn't passed legislation to address the need for financial help due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, as one after another airline either announced the complete withdrawal of service or severe cuts. Boeing, meanwhile, continued to bum through cash reserves as it watched its stock price decline by some 70 percent. Much of the debate surrounded a $50 billion stimulus package requested by the country's airlines, whose liquidity crisis many blamed on the fact that the industry spent most of its cash on stock buybacks last year. Nevertheless, in recognition of the vital role the industry plays in the economy, President Donald Trump pledged to place airlines "number one" in line for government support. He also expressed a desire to support Boeing, which asked for a $60 billion package, part of which would help support its supply chain.