It is hard to justify producing an entire airframe--even if it is just a modification to an existing model--based on the request of one customer, since it is unlikely that Boeing (or Airbus for that matter) could = recoup design costs from that one order. Yes, it is possible that others would = buy the plane, but it makes much more sense to have interest from several customers before beginning design, especially because of the volatility = of the airline business. An analogy: Hewlett-Packard buys thousands of Ford Taurus' each year for = its internal fleet (primarily for use by salesmen and support personnel). = Let's say that HP really wants a Taurus with a larger trunk. They can go to = Ford and say "hey, how about a Taurus with a larger trunk?" Ford might say "yeah, that's a nice idea," but is unlikely to build the car _only_ on = the strength of HP's interest. The calculus changes when Ford gets a lot of requests for a Taurus with a larger trunk. -----Original Message----- From: The Airline List [mailto:AIRLINE@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of Alireza Alivandivafa Sent: Tuesday, July 22, 2003 8:01 PM To: AIRLINE@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Subject: Re: Thomas Cook and their 753s In a message dated 7/22/2003 4:33:28 PM Pacific Daylight Time, DENNMASS@xxxxxxx writes: << My negative comment on the 753 disposal by Cook's had exactly the = Med flights in mind. But like the postings on the Euro Star Alliance choice = for a short hauler, I'm afraid they will turn to the Toulouse Cartel. >> I do know LH was lobbying hard for a 713. It is interesting that = everytime LH wants something from Boeing, like the 747X, Boeing does not build it, = so how can you blame them for going to Airbus for the 40% off sales? Many = Star airlines fly the A320 family so the A318 seems like a fit, but it is a = gas hog (as single aisles go) and the 712 is a really good fit for anyone, = ask QF