"The 777 airplanes that we are proposing to China Airlines are the most suitable airplanes for the airline in its endeavor to simplify its fleet, increase its profit margin and provide the most pleasant flying experience for its passengers," Boeing said in a statement.
Despite the advantages of both planes, at the end of the day it may simply come down to which government drives the most effective lobbying machine.
As one industry observer noted, "in all aircraft orders, because they are such high-profile deals, politics tends to play a role. This can tilt the playing field for commerce.
"Because the US provides so much in the way of military support, the Americans feel aggrieved that China Airlines -- a state-owned airline -- is going to spend all this money buying all these aircraft from Europe," he said.
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