Differences In Boeing Versus Airbus Market Projections

Boeing believes Airbus' forecast for the A380 will not survive the reality of the marketplace

Aviation Week & Space Technology 03/07/05
author: Pierre Sparaco
author: Robert Wall

'Reasonableness' Test

Boeing's top executives are convinced that the potential market for their rival's 500-seat-plus aircraft is narrowing.

The consolidation versus fragmentation debate pitting Boeing against Airbus, although far from new, is further escalating as the A380's first flight date nears. Boeing's business analysts are convinced traffic growth will continue to create new city pairs while Airbus believes higher-capacity aircraft will be needed to operate hub-to-hub routes.