If you are a frequent traveler and have an interest in commercial aviation, you have no doubt been asked if you were team Airbus or team Boeing.
The two giants, Airbus and Boeing, in aircraft manufacturing, have been competing since the 1970s when the European consortium entered the market as an alternative to the American mighty brand Boeing.
Since then, Airbus and Boeing have been shaping the fleets of the world’s airlines, progressively upgrading their successful products to align with the evolving requests of an ever-changing and complex industry.
While some carriers operate mixed fleets of Airbus and Boeing aircraft, others decide to invest completely in one particular manufacturer. The logic behind this decision has different natures, among which one finds economic advantages.
However, an Airbus and a Boeing aircraft are entirely different products from many perspectives.
- Team Airbus or Team Boeing: The two leading aircraft manufacturers have been competing since the 1970s.
- Fleet Shaping: Airbus and Boeing shape the fleets of global airlines, continuously upgrading their products.
- Mixed or Single Manufacturer Fleets: Airlines may choose mixed fleets or invest in one manufacturer for economic advantages.
- Control Mechanisms:
- Airbus: Uses a sidestick (joystick-like) for flight control, employing Fly-By-Wire (FBW) technology that converts inputs into electrical signals.
- Boeing: Utilizes a traditional control column (yoke) for manual flight control.
- Cockpit Door Design:
- Airbus: Doors open parallel to the fuselage.
- Boeing: Doors move crossway, with a left-to-right lever movement.
- Distinctive Noise:
- Airbus: Features a “barking dog” sound from the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) indicating proper hydraulic function.
- Boeing: PTU operates quietly, typically without noticeable noise.
- Historical Ties:
- Airbus: Strong ties with European legacy carriers.
- Boeing: Deep historical connection with United Airlines, originating from early aviation developments and US Navy contracts.
- Product Range:
- Airbus: Produces commercial aircraft, and helicopters, and operates in defense and space sectors.
- Boeing: Involved in commercial aviation, space, and defense, notable for military helicopters like the CH-47 Chinook.