[FoxInSocks]

One minor detail they seem to be overlooking is that this jet is so big that many major airports around the world are not equipped to handle something that large.

Found this after a Google search:

"Airbus said the A380 is compatible with facilities used in airports by existing large aircraft. Its large wings and new engines will allow it to take off and land in less distance than current large aircraft. The company said the footprint of the A380 landing gear does not require new runways to be built."

[Reaganesque]

Hmm, all the articles I read said it wasn't compatible. Could have been spin from Boeing. Still, if Boeing's airplane is in fact cheaper and easier to use, they would still have the competitive advantage.

[Siegfried]

Airbus said the A380 is compatible with facilities used in airports by existing large aircraft.

I understand that one of the big problems is that many airports are designed with a certain distance between taxiways and runways, based on the longest aircraft wingspan expected. If this A380 were to taxi by a runway with a B747 landing it might trade wingtips at some airports. Not a good thing.