Consequently, Boeing operators seeking to defend thin long-haul routes will need to either deploy larger, more expensive widebodies or transition their narrowbody long-haul orders to Airbus, the worst-case scenario for Boeing. The New Dual Network StrategyCredit: ShutterstockDespite the rapid growth of narrowbody long-haul routes, claims regarding the immediate demise of the hub-and-spoke model are rather exaggerated. Furthermore, belly cargo revenue is a vital financial component on long-haul routes, an area where widebodies retain a clear advantage over narrowbodies. This dual strategy allows network carriers to defend their hub ecosystems while aggressively expanding into secondary long-haul markets that were previously out of reach. Meanwhile, long-range narrowbodies like the A321XLR will dominate thin long-haul routes, seasonal point-to-point expansions, and new market entry across oceans.