In a message dated 9/28/2003 9:04:10 PM Pacific Daylight Time, BraniffIntl@xxxxxxx writes: << The airline industry was in a slump at that time and in order to get orders for the B757, Boeing had no other choice than end the 727 line. The problem Boeing faces today is quite similar: too many lines and not enough buyers. The B757 is a classic example as the Next Generation 737s have decimated the market for the 757. While Airbus has but one narrow aisle product (A318-321), Boeing has three with the B717, B737 and B757 - none of which share cockpit commonality. (gawd..I'm agreeing with Gordo, here!) And the much ballyhooed 7E7? The B767 line will have to end as there just aren't enough non NG 737 operators to make the numbers work. Now, do you really want to get me started on the quirky B717 again? >> The 757 also offered much better fuel burn and similar takeoff performance to the 727 (which is why it is so over engined). The thing that keeps the 717 hanging on is the fact that it is so efficient, airlines are willing to operate a mixed fleet, as they still save money as long as they keep pilots on one airplane or another. The problem with the 757 now is that the number of 767 operators is dropping. They have a great deal of commonality and are good companions, but the 737 NGs are now flying with enough range that they rival the 757. The reason that the 757 is doing so well in the cargo market now is the same reason the 727 did so well, people are dumping them and they can take off from anywhere. The plus is that they have more range and are much cheaper to operate.