I think Boeing did a masterful job of goading Airbus into building a very large white elephant. There should be a nice downturn in the world economy just about time the orders are ready for the assembly line. Prediction: another big loser.
Boeing's high sub-sonic cruiser? Can't see the big advantage in that. Bitch'n looking airplane though, but still not quite as nice as the Concorde. Probably have about the same economics, which is to say, not so good.
Airbus kicking Boeing's bee-hind? Oh, please. Yea, that 340 is a real barnburner -- can't make 'em fast enough, huh. The 330 is a pig. The 320 is a good money-maker airplane, but has the repuation among mechanics of being, well . . disposable.
Just be glad we have two world-class manufacturers of large aircraft. It keeps everybody somewhat honest and innovative.
The real measure of which is the best airplane is: Which one has the best 12 year Captains pay?
[This message has been edited by Roadtrip (edited 02 April 2001).]