IIRC Airbuses are made out of thicker gauge metal. Contrary to the myths, they are, if anything, more robust than Boeings, as well as having a far more modern build procedure - ie if you need a new fuselage panel for a 'bus you can order one from the factory and it will fit the old hole - rivet holes included as the panels are machine fitted. As Boeings are made like farm machinery by rivetters (sp?) each panel is different and need to be custom fitted (often with judicious use of a lump hammer).