Originally Posted by forgot to bid

Absolutely true. It's almost funny that the 757 is mentioned as a 727 replacement, the thing is truly in a class of its own. It's like replacing a 6'1" 215 lb QB that could throw okay with a 6'6" 250 lb QB that can run and juke and yet throw accurately down field.

But I don't think anyone will try to make a direct replacement because the 757 was knocked out by lesser airplanes such as the 738, 739 and I guess maybe even the A321. I mean to make something that equals the 757 might be a waste of effort if the smaller jets continue to hurt it. Think of all of the "757 routes" done or shared with 737s, MD88s and 90s and 320s now. And the high altitude stuff is taken up by 737-700s and A319s.

Not saying the 757 is going away by any means, just saying since economics guides the decisions and given "shrinking" airplanes rarely works well (as in 787 to 757 size) I think there won't be a replacement as the 757s exit a long time from now. Unless the A321 or 738 replacement are given massive engines.