Originally Posted by FastDEW

It seems to me that Boeing plans for growth by putting on a bigger wing than required for the initial models, which costs them a bit in efficiency on cruise. But Airbus tends to go with small efficient wings that limit growth. I know the 321 has a trailing edge "kink" to increase surface area, but it just isnt enough.

Having never flown a 737 without and than with winglets, I wonder the gain achieved? Anyone have comments on this?

Regarding AA buying the Bus, I thought after the 300 in New York, that AA was pretty unhappy with how Airbus pointed to AA training. My recollection was that AA and Airbus were pretty much "enemies" after that. Of course a low price on some new narrows might fix the hard feelings in rapid fashion.....