Which airline was the first US carrier to lease the A300 from Airbus?

Eastern Airlines was the first US carrier to lease the A300 from Airbus, marking a significant moment in aviation history. The A300 was a pioneering aircraft for Airbus, being the world's first wide-bodied twin-engine airliner. Eastern Airlines' decision to adopt this model in the late 1970s allowed the airline to improve its operational efficiency and expand routes, as the A300 was adept at servicing both transcontinental and international flights with reduced costs compared to older aircraft. This move not only demonstrated a shift in the airline industry towards more modern aircraft options but also established Airbus as a competitive player in the market dominated by Boeing at the time. The A300's introduction helped set new standards in passenger comfort and airline service models that many carriers would follow later.