"If we can get the values lined up with performance, then [Boeing] is an absolutely unbeatable company."

—Jim McNerney, Boeing chairman, president and CEO, in the March 13 issue of Business Week

"We are growing with a fuel-efficient, comfortable and reliable airplane."

—Bill Ayer, Alaska Airlines chairman and chief executive, to reporters and analysts in a March 13 conference call, after announcing Alaska's intention to become an all-Boeing 737 fleet

"The government has selected the C-17 for its ability to meet the needs of the Australian Defense Force over the next 30 years."

—Brendan Nelson, defense minister of Australia, about Australia's decision to purchase four C-17 airlifters