I understand any company do things that give net profit. But, had not manufacturing newer engines that increase its Endurance and Range saved it from its decline?
Airbus had designed the A380 to carry as many people as possible so that airlines would be able to fly fewer flights. Instead of flying multiple flights between two cities, airlines could save money by flying just one A380 flight and cramming as many passengers into one plane.
What that would've meant, however, was fewer flights and less flexibility for travellers who don't want to rely on just one flight per day. Very few airlines used the model as intended and the A380 came too late as Boeing was already knee-deep in the 787's development by the time the A380 took its first flight.
Though, bigger aircraft need more ground handling times and management. But with the oncoming innovations, it would have been decreased in future.
For example,
The Wheeltug
As the electric power is used, it also reduces required staffs, cuts down time and Taxi fuel too.
And that may help the airlines too increase the number of flights.
The FlexSys Morphing Wing
As the weight of hydraulics are removed here. This can also lead to higher fuel economy.
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Concept
It is nice that the Airbus is itself working on this concept for commercial airliners.
And it would had been nice too if it was implemented to A380 later too.
Reducing the wing span by folding wings on ground for smaller airports. (Though mentioned earlier) Improving engines for shorter Takeoff and Noise Reduction, etc. could help the airliners to reach more destinations with A380.
I want to know the practical feasibilty of introducing an A380neo. And how my above mentioned innoventions fail to be implied in A380? Also, could idling the outer engines thrust help in reducing the wake while landing or gliding, that eventually reduce the safety regulations and requrements for a "Super" aircraft (by this, I meant, will it lead to decrease the seperation required specially for Bigger Aircrafts)?