The fundamental problem in the current fuel fiasco is that the 747 is a 1960's/70's design with all that is inherently flawed with it. The 4 engine design that was required before the big twins got their ETOP's ratings was a requirement for trans atlantic routes. The wing is a high speed swept wing which is wonderful for cruising at .84 mach but it really gobbles the fuel!
As has been said previously, there is little to replace the Jumbo at the moment. The 777 is a good alternate but they can't build them quickly enough. A rough example is a round trip Heathrow to Sao Paulo where the 777 will burn as much as 40 tonnes less than the 744.
Drop to the SH routes and you will find the 737 fuel burn is, on average, 20% higher than the equivalent sized Airbus model. The 757 is a gas guzzler compared to a similarly configured A321.
Thus, most airlines operating the older aircraft, 744,757,767,733,734,735 etc will probably being laying them up later this year for a well earned rest over the leaner, winter season.
Good time to be owning newer Boeing's and Airbus's!
