A340 vs 777

[typhoonpilot]

Originally Posted by silverelise

From the BBC (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/4619854.stm):
Why is the A340 losing out by so much over the 777?

Simple economics really. The Airbus 340-500/600 are not economical aircraft with oil above $35/barrel. The 777-200/300 can do the same mission for significantly lower direct operating costs. When oil was at a much lower prices the acquisition cost of the Airbus was what won them orders. Now the lower acquisition cost isn't enough to offset the higher operating costs.

TP