The common rating for the 318/319/320/321 was a brilliant move. Add into that the 330/340, and it is a real benefit, especially to smaller airlines in countries where the have a mix of int'l and local service. Can an airline have a common rating for all/most Airbus models?

As a passenger, I prefer Boeing equipment- definately on looks. No good real reason why (possibly my bias as an American). That said, I wouldn't hesitate to ride in an Airbus.

When an airline selects a "fleet", how often do construction and delivery times come in as a big factor?