Market Presence. The development of the B747-8I improves the operating economics of the type. Airbus indicates that the A380 currently offers a 15-20 percent efficiency improvement over the B747-400. The larger -8I makes the differential much more marginal. Indeed Boeing cites that the trip cost of the -8I over the A380 is some 25 percent less. With the B747 perceived to be a known quantity and proven product in terms of performance, capability, maintenance support and airport handling, Airbus appreciate that the -8I represents a formidable competitor.
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