Why do low cost carriers choose the 737?
I've always wondered why so many low cost carriers operate the 737 instead of the A320. Most online information seems to suggest that both the list prices and lease prices for the A320 are lower and maintenance cost is comparable. I've been told that loading the A320 requires more/other equipment because it's higher off the ground and it uses containers, but I believe Airbus offers a bulk loader A320 as well. Now I've never flown the A320 so I don't know much about it's reliability, efficiency or turnaround times (amongst others) but perhaps it has something to do with one of those factors?
At the same time I wonder why almost all EU flag carriers prefer the A320 instead!