How Airbus & Boeing Quietly Killed Engine Choice On Every New Widebody Aircraft

Airbus and Boeing are increasingly dictating engine choices on their new widebody aircraft designs due to the adoption of tightly paired airframe and engine configurations. This trend has resulted in airlines committing to a specific aircraft type alongside a designated engine manufacturer. The practice effectively eliminates alternative engine options for operators purchasing these advanced models. Currently, this strategy is being implemented across all newly developed wide-body aircraft from both companies. Airlines now face limited flexibility when selecting propulsion systems for their fleets.