Airbus grabs Boeing’s headlines

It should have been one of the most interesting aircraft orders in recent times, last week’s announcement by American Airlines that it was ordering 100 CFM56-7B-powered Next-Generation 737s, with options for an additional 40.  Included in the statement was an admission by Boeing that a version of the aircraft would also be available with CFM International’s LEAP-X engine, a ‘plane not yet made public and that American would take up to 160.  The new Boeing is reported to be named the 737RE (for re-engined).

The fly in the ointment as far as Boeing is concerned was the declaration by American that it was ending its all-Boeing policy and adding no less than 260 Airbus A320 series aircraft, of which 130 would be of the new Neo variant probably with the same LEAP-X engine as the 737. 

Since launching the innovative product in December of last year, Airbus has received orders and commitments for almost 1,200 A320neo Family aircraft. 

Both manufactures ought to be happy, now with order books filling up towards 2020 and the world wanting new and eco friendly aircraft. www.airbus.com www.boeing.com/commercial

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