Boeing’s new 747-8 freighter got another boost from Airbus today. The European plane maker decided to postpone work on its A380 freighter until it can get the passenger version of the oft-delayed superjumbo jet back on track.
Airbus has long conceded the large freighter market to Boeing. (For more about Boeing’s cargo dominance, http://www.heraldnet.com/stories/07/01/06/100bus_cargo001.cfm). The A380 freighter was its best bet to break back into the market.
The recently beleaguered Airbus only has one existing customer, UPS, for its A380 freighter. The shipping company’s order for 10 cargo jets certainly isn’t solid. (Read more about UPS’s order http://www.heraldnet.com/stories/07/02/24/100bus_ups001.cfm). Airbus still lists more than 150 orders for its A380 passenger jet on its Web site.
Under immense pressure to deliver finally its A380 passenger plane this year, Airbus is directing its efforts in its best interest.
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