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Last I heard was that United had Boeing and Airbus compete for the bid to supply the aircraft. Anyone have any speculation on what type of aircraft they may get? A spokesperson for UAL stated that they would like to find a possible replacement for the 757 fleet; perhaps another smaller or mid-sized twin engine jet.

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They are looking to replace their wide body fleet and some 757s, so they will be looking at the new 777s, 787, A330, and A350. I'm sure they will also look at the 747-8 and A380, but they might not feel that they need an aircraft of that size anymore.

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I am personally not a fan of the A380 concept. I think it represents what is wrong with the industry. That is the idea of impersonal service and cramming them in like sardines. I prefer the smaller jets. 767's are great as are 757's.

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I've heard a rumor of A318/319s or 737-700/800s

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The only announcement from United was within the last few weeks for a major order of around 150 jets - all wide body replacements except for some 757 replacements, so I don't know where anyone would get the idea that they are looking at smaller jets. Why replace the current A319s and A320s with the same technology? I think they've said that they would like to wait to order narrow bodies until new more efficient technology is on the table.

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They wouldn't really be replacing the current A319s and A320s, they would simply be adding to the current fleet of Airbuses and phasing out the aging 757 transcontinental fleet. I've heard that they are seeking an aircraft that would be versatile for both short to medium range flights as well as transcon service. Thus, newer Airbuses as well as the New Generation 737s would be able to get the job done.