Don Brunell - Boeing had a great year

Every year about this time, we compare the commercial airplane sales of Boeing and its European arch rival, Airbus.

Over the last decade, the results haven’ worked in Boeing’s favor. Airbus has posted higher sales numbers as Boeing struggled to get its new 787 into production. However this year, Boeing, which assembles the bulk of its commercial aircraft in the Puget Sound area, is the clear winner.

Boeing reported 962 orders placed so far in 2012, more than double Airbus’ 437.

For both companies, single-aisle plane sales are pivotal to their success. Boeing’s new 737 MAX is 13 percent more fu...