The development of a new commercial aircraft is a complex process spanning several years and requiring the energies of a large number of persons, both within and outside the originating organisation. Conditions for successful growth must be just right for the design to proceed to the first major accomplishment stage—that of flyable “hardware.” Conditions have to continue to be extremely favourable to reach the second stage—that of widespread airline operation. History indicates that they must be favourable to an unfortunately remote extent to reach the third stage—that of financial success for the manufacturer.

Many of the conditions involved go far beyond those under the control of the manufacturer and may even be wholly unpredictable in nature. This is why the third stage is so seldom achieved, at least in a free enterprise system.