Airbus A380-800

The Airbus A380-800 typically seats 485 passengers in a standard three-class configuration. In a high-density single-class layout, it can accommodate up to 853 passengers, making it the largest passenger aircraft ever built. The A380 features a full-length upper deck, with most airlines placing premium cabins upstairs and economy on the main deck. Emirates famously offers onboard showers and a bar in its first and business class.

The Airbus A380-800 has a maximum range of approximately 14,800 km (8,000 nautical miles). This comfortably covers ultra-long-haul routes such as Dubai to Los Angeles, Singapore to London, or Sydney to Dallas. The A380 is powered by four engines — either Rolls-Royce Trent 900 or Engine Alliance GP7200 — providing the thrust necessary to lift its maximum takeoff weight of 575 tonnes.

The A380's double-deck design creates the most spacious cabin in commercial aviation, with lower noise levels and less vibration than smaller aircraft. Airlines have used the vast interior space for premium amenities never seen on other types, including Emirates' first class suites with shower spas, Singapore Airlines' double bed suites, and Etihad's three-room Residence apartment. The main deck ceiling height and wide aisles give economy passengers a notably less cramped feeling than on single-aisle or smaller wide-body aircraft.

Emirates is by far the largest A380 operator with over 110 aircraft, forming the backbone of its Dubai hub. Other active operators include Singapore Airlines, Qantas, Lufthansa, British Airways, and Korean Air. Airbus ended A380 production in 2021 after delivering 251 aircraft, as the industry shifted toward smaller, more efficient twin-engine wide-bodies. However, post-pandemic demand for high-capacity aircraft on busy routes has given the A380 a second life with several airlines.

The A380-800 carries significantly more passengers than the 747-400 (485 vs 416 in three-class) thanks to its full-length double deck versus the 747's partial upper deck. The A380 is also more fuel-efficient per seat despite being larger, consuming about 20% less fuel per passenger. However, both types have been superseded in new orders by twin-engine aircraft like the 787 and A350, which offer lower operating costs and more route flexibility.