Competitive Strategies Case Study

Boeing 747-8 – Airbus A380: The Big Fight

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Abstract:
The global aviation market was strongly dominated by Airbus and Boeing. Both Airbus and Boeing had contrasting views about the future of the aviation market. While Airbus promoted hub to hub method of air transportation and thus preferred long haul flights, Boeing preferred point to point method of air transportation. This case gives an idea about the contrasting views of the two aircraft manufacturer along with the future of commercial airlines.

Pedagogical Objectives:

• To understand the market dynamics of civil aerospace industry
• To understand business model of Airbus and Boeing
• To analyse competitive position of Airbus vis a vis Boeing
• To analyse the sustainability of the contrasting business models of Boeing and Airbus.

Keywords : Boeing; Airbus; Japan Airlines; Boeing 747-8 freighter; Boeing 747-8 passenger; Short haul service; 787 Dreamliner; Aerodynamic principle; Point-to-point; Hub-to-hub; British Airport Authority; Nippon Cargo Airlines; Project 747-8; Mach number; Competitive Strategies Case Study; EADS (European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company)

Contents : 
Boeing: The Early Mover
Airbus: Gaining Importance
Airbus vs. Boeing: The battle began
Global Civil Aerospace market in 2006: A snapshot
Boeing’s 747- 8: The new dimension
Boeing challenges A380 with new 747- 8: The big fight
Boeing and Airbus: Battle for future market
Aircraft Operating System