Chris W wrote:

Apples and oranges, of course as they are two completely different
category aircraft.

Isn't that the whole point? Airbus made apples and the customers wanted
oranges.

I don't think that's quite accurate, it's not as if *no* airline bought
A380s; that aircraft just seems better suited for high density routes
in Asia. Boeing's sales success with 787 means (to me) their point 2
point strategy works better for more airlines than the Uberjet. When
the U.S. airlines start replacing their fleets, my guess is many will
go with 787. The A350 just got the go ahead for development/production
& hopefully that program will have better luck sticking with its
schedule. Then there's the A320 redesign for 2012-2013 - Airbus can't
afford to flub that one as the narrowbodies are the biggest selling
segment in transports.