Top 10 Largest Aircraft in the World: Embark on a journey through the sky as we explore the colossal marvels of modern aviation—the world’s largest aircraft. In just over a century, we’ve evolved from brief airborne moments to effortlessly transporting hundreds of passengers worldwide. From sleek designs to groundbreaking efficiency, aircraft manufacturers continue to redefine the limits of engineering. Join us in discovering the top 10 largest aircraft by wingspan currently soaring through the skies.
List of Top 10 Largest Aircraft in the World
Scaled Composites Stratolaunch – 117m
The Stratolaunch boasts a record-breaking wingspan of 117m, making it the largest plane ever flown. To offer some perspective, the average soccer field is approximately 105m in length. Featuring six powerful engines, it reaches an altitude of 10,668m (35,000ft) and is designed to carry orbital rockets to the edge of space. With a twin-fuselage structure, the cockpit and flight crew reside in the right fuselage, while the left houses the uncrewed section containing flight data systems. Having successfully completed ten flights, this operational giant is not your typical passenger plane.
Antonov An-225 – 88.4m
Once the heaviest plane ever built, the Antonov An-225 met its demise during the Battle of Antonov Airport in the 2022 Ukraine invasion. With a colossal wingspan of 88.4m and a maximum take-off weight of 640 tonnes, it was a true behemoth. Originally, only one was completed, but plans to finish a second version surfaced after its destruction, hinting at the potential return of this sky-filling giant.
Airbus A380-800 – 79.75m
The Airbus A380-800 reigns as the world’s largest passenger plane, capable of accommodating up to 853 people, though the average is closer to 600. Pioneering the use of synthetic liquid fuel in 2008, it further tested 100% sustainable aviation fuel in March 2022 during a three-hour flight. With the production of 251 units now concluded, there are no plans to replace this iconic airborne giant.
Antonov An-124 – 73.3m
The Antonov An-124 holds the title of the heaviest operational cargo plane, serving global cargo missions for nearly four decades. Despite its aging design, it remains crucial in humanitarian efforts, such as aiding earthquake victims in Syria and Turkey in March 2023. Resembling the Lockheed C5 Galaxy, its wider wingspan allows it to carry 17% more payload and accommodate up to 88 passengers when required.
Boeing 777X – 71.75m (when airborne)
Set to enter service in 2025, the Boeing 777X series, including the 777-9 and the freight version, the 777-8, showcases cutting-edge aviation technology. Equipped with more fuel-efficient engines and expanded cabin space due to wider bodies, its wingspan grows from 64.85m to 71.75m during flight, securing its position among the world’s largest planes.
Boeing 747-8 – 68.45m
The Boeing 747-8, the latest and largest variant of the iconic 747 series, has maintained its strength over 50 years of service. Despite displaying signs of aging in some aspects, it can still comfortably transport 467 passengers around the globe. Recognized for its success and iconic presence, the 747 remains a staple in the aviation world.
Lockheed C5 Galaxy – 67.89m
Serving the US Air Force since 1969, the Lockheed C5 Galaxy stands as a military transport plane with a remarkable career extending into 2040. While its longevity is impressive, the C5 faces criticism for its fuel inefficiency and reliability issues. Nevertheless, its colossal cargo hold enables the transportation of tanks and large military equipment worldwide.
Boeing 747 Dreamlifter – 64.44m
Originally designed to transport components of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, the Boeing 747 Dreamlifter has evolved into a versatile wide-bodied cargo plane. With only four units in existence, it gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic, facilitating the global transport of medical supplies.
Airbus A340-500 – 63.45m
Although aging in commercial aviation terms, the Airbus A340-500 boasts an impressive range of 14,484km, enabling non-stop flights from London to Perth, Australia. However, due to inefficiencies and newer aircraft advancements, it is gradually being phased out from global service.
Boeing Dreamliner – 60.12m
The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, entering service in 2011, is among the fastest commercial aircraft, reaching maximum speeds of 944km/h. With a design 20% more efficient than its predecessor, the Boeing 767, and featuring the largest cabin windows in commercial aviation, it offers passengers a glimpse of the horizon even from the middle of the plane.
……………………By ZNT News