Torquelink,
Just look at the Hushkit market. Boeing told their customers back in the day that it was economically impossible to bring these older aircraft to Stage 3. The truth was some sales w*nker decided that Boeing would sell a lot of airplanes if they could not meet noise requirements. What happened? The airlines revolted and companies like FedEx, Nordam & Raisbeck made billions and they sold dick for 757s compared to the 727.
They also pissed off some of their biggest customers to the point that they have publically said they will NEVER buy aircraft directly from Boeing again.
Your correct about the A380 and that is the only reason that Boeing is offering the 744SF. Not sure how many they will sell though. They are 6 Million plus over IAI for the conversion.
