Airbus hired Pipers John Leahy in 1985 to lead their North American sales team and he was named their global head of sales by 1994.

They have a long history that has actually served as a benefit to their customers.

When one company launches a new and innovative aircraft, the other is not far behind, coming up with new designs and ways to forge ahead in the delivery of commercial aircraft that are a cut above the status quo.

These giants in the industry each offer impressive track records for supplying the world with new an innovative aircraft that have changed the way that business and transportation operates.

The two supergiants arose as leaders within the past two decades and have consistently engaged in a rivalry to dominate the market.

It has grown to become an aerospace and defense manufacturer that is the largest exporter of industrial products.

During the 1970s period, their biggest rivals were American competitors Lockheed and McDonnell Douglas, each offering impressive commercial aircraft and holding their own.

Boeing surged ahead with production of the 767-200 which launched in 1978 and entered service just three years later.

Airbus was just getting going in 1970 and was not yet an established competitor.

Boeing made an acquisition of chief rival McDonnell Douglas in 1997 for the cost of 13 billion.

Airbus Airbus is the new kid on the block and just made its appearance on the scene in 1970.

Boeing had a huge head start, but the French company would arise to serious competitor status soon.

Airbus started in 1967 when a collection of the British, French and German governments united in a joint effort to develop and improve aviation within their respective countries.

Other countries were surging ahead and in a bid to keep up, the consortium that was named Airbus was formed with its main headquarters located in Toulouse, France.

It wasnt smooth sailing for Airbus as they encountered multiple issues with finding the right engine as a deal with Rolls Royces RB207 fell through.

Another issue arose in marketing projections which required the airliner to reduce the passenger load from 300 to 250 seats for effiency.

Britain decided to build the wings for the craft in 1968 and with other parts contributions made from consortium members, the first Airbus A300B was sold to Air France with an order of 3 aircraft.

When the 250 seat plane was deemed too small, Airbus stretched the A300B1 with an additional 20 Seats and named it the A300B2.

The A300Bs maiden flight took place near the end of October in 1972, but it wasnt a threat to Boeings jumbo jet.

Airbus Us Headquarters Crack The US

Airbus could not crack the US market with their Aircraft, although they tried.

They were restricted to the South African, European and Asian markets.

Airbus Us Headquarters Free Six Month

Airbus becomes Boeings competition in 1978 When Airbus gave Eastern Airlines a free six month trial with four A300s, the Florida carrier liked the experience and placed an order for 23 more craft.

They launched development of the A310 that same year, which offered a longer range.