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Boeing 747-8I vs. Airbus A300-600

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747-8I

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A300-600

Price (USD)
$418 Million$100 Million
First Flight
20111983
Body Type
Wide-bodyWide-body
Length
76 m250 ft
54 m177 ft
Wingspan
68 m224 ft
44 m147 ft
Wing Area
554 m²5,963 ft²
260 m²2,798 ft²
Fuselage Width
6 m21 ft
5 m18 ft
Height
19 m63 ft
16 m54 ft
Max Takeoff Weight
447,700 kg987,010 lbs
171,700 kg378,536 lbs
Number of Engines
42
Engine Options
General Electric GEnxGeneral Electric CF6 / Pratt & Whitney PW4000
Max Thrust Per Engine
296 kN66,500 lbf
262 kN59,000 lbf
Max Total Thrust
1,184 kN266,000 lbf
524 kN118,000 lbf
Fuel Capacity
238,610 l63,034 gal
68,150 l18,003 gal
Range
14,310 km7,727 nm
7,500 km4,050 nm
Cruise Speed
907 km/h564 mph
897 km/h557 mph
Typical Seating
467 pax257 pax
Max Seating
660 pax345 pax

What Are the Differences Between the Boeing 747-8I and Airbus A300-600

Boeing 747-8I vs Airbus A300-600 Size Comparison

  • At 76.30 meters, the Boeing 747-8I is 22.20 meters longer than the Airbus A300-600.
  • With a wingspan of 68.40 meters, the Boeing 747-8I is 23.60 meters wider from wingtip to wingtip.
  • The Boeing 747-8I and Airbus A300-600 have heights of 19.40 meters and 16.50 meters respectively - making the Boeing 747-8I 2.90 meters taller.

Boeing 747-8I vs Airbus A300-600 Range

  • Boeing 747-8I’s range of 14,310 kilometers is greater than Airbus A300-600’s range of 7,500 kilometers. Therefore, the Boeing 747-8I can fly nonstop approximately 6,810 kilometers further.
  • The Boeing 747-8I can hold 63,034 gallons of fuel, which is 45,031 gallons more than the Airbus A300-600’s tank capacity of 18,003 gallons.

Boeing 747-8I vs Airbus A300-600 Seating

  • In a typical seating configuration, the Boeing 747-8I can accommodate 467 passengers, which is about 210 passengers more than Airbus A300-600’s seating capacity.
  • The Boeing 747-8I’s max seating capacity is 660 passengers, compared to 345 passengers of the Airbus A300-600.

About the Boeing 747-8I

The Boeing 747-8I is a large wide-body aircraft designed for long haul flights. Debuting in 2012, the 747-8I (Intercontinental) was the most recent model of the commercial jumbo jet, offering a blend of legacy and innovation. Also referred to as "The Queen of the Skies", the 747-8I is the longest passenger aircraft in the world. It stretches 250.2 feet (76.3 meters) and is characterized by its iconic hump and massive 4 engines. The 747-8i's length not only enhances its visual appeal but also significantly increases its cabin space, allowing for a three-class configuration that accommodates about 467 passengers.

The aircraft's wingspan, an impressive 224.7 feet (68.4 meters), incorporates advanced aerodynamic design with raked wingtips, reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency. This enhancement is crucial in minimizing environmental impact, aligning with the industry's shift towards more sustainable air travel. The 747-8i's four powerful GEnx-2B67 engines, supplied by General Electric, produce a combined thrust of 296,000 lbf (1,316.0 kN), enabling a range of up to 7,730 nautical miles (14,320 kilometers). This extended range capability makes the 747-8i an ideal choice for long-haul and intercontinental flights. Compared to the 747-400, the -8I is estimated by Boeing to be 16% more fuel-efficient, and have 13% lower seat-mile costs.

In terms of competition, the 747-8i stands as a formidable contender against the Airbus A380, offering a different approach to ultra-long-haul travel. While the A380 focuses on maximum passenger capacity, the 747-8i balances capacity with operational efficiency and a unique passenger experience. Its layout and design provide opportunities for airlines to customize the cabin with luxurious amenities, including private suites, upscale lounges, and spacious seating arrangements, enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers.

Unfortunately, only a few airlines ordered the newest Queen of the Skies. The reality was that newer, two engine aircraft were far more efficient, and had dramatically lower operating costs than the 747. However, airlines such as Lufthansa, Korean Air, and Air China recognized value in adding 747-8Is to their fleets for flagship international routes. These carriers currently leverage the aircraft's iconic status and advanced capabilities to provide passengers with an exceptional level of comfort and service.

The Boeing 747-8i symbolizes the culmination of decades of innovation in the 747 series. While retaining the classic and beloved features of its predecessors, it introduces modern advancements in aerospace technology. The aircraft's entry into the market was seen not just as an evolution of the 747 line but also as a statement of Boeing's ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of commercial aviation. Today, the 747-8i continues to captivate both the flying public and aviation enthusiasts, serving as a testament to the enduring appeal and significance of the 747 family.

About the Airbus A300-600

The Airbus A300-600 is a wide-body, twin-engine jet airliner developed by Airbus as part of the A300 aircraft family. Introduced to the commercial aviation market in the 1980s, the A300-600 represents a significant evolution in Airbus's wide-body offerings, catering to medium to long-haul routes. This model showcases advancements in aerospace technology and design, reflecting the changing needs of the global aviation industry during that period.

Measuring 177.5 feet (54.1 meters) in length with a wingspan of 147.1 feet (44.84 meters), the A300-600 is designed to transport a large number of passengers over considerable distances. Typically, the aircraft can seat around 250-290 passengers in a standard three-class configuration, although seating arrangements can vary based on airline specifications. This capacity makes it suitable for various operations, ranging from high-density short-haul routes to more extended intercontinental flights. The A300-600 incorporates a number of design improvements over its predecessors in the A300 series. Notably, the aircraft features an increased use of composites and advanced alloys in its structure, enhancing its efficiency and reducing overall weight. It is powered by General Electric CF6-80C2 or Pratt & Whitney PW4000 engines, which provide the necessary thrust for its operations. The aircraft's maximum takeoff weight is approximately 375,000 lbs, and it has a range of about 4,050 nautical miles. Inside the cabin, the A300-600 offers a comfortable and spacious environment for passengers, with a focus on maximizing cabin space and providing amenities that enhance the travel experience. The cockpit design incorporates advanced avionics and electronic flight instrumentation, consistent with Airbus's commitment to leveraging technology for improved flight operations and safety.

Over its production life, the Airbus A300-600 was ordered and operated by several airlines around the world. Key operators have included carriers such as Lufthansa, Thai Airways, and Saudi Arabian Airlines, who have deployed the aircraft across a variety of routes. Its versatility and capacity have made it a valuable asset for airlines needing a wide-body aircraft capable of handling diverse operational demands. The A300-600's significance in the Airbus lineup lies in its role as a bridge between the first generation of wide-body jets and the newer, more technologically advanced models that followed. Its introduction was a step forward in the evolution of commercial aircraft, combining increased passenger capacity with improved efficiency and range.

The Airbus A300-600 remains a notable model in the history of commercial aviation, demonstrating Airbus's ability to innovate and adapt to the changing landscape of air travel. While its production has since ceased, the A300-600 continues to be recognized for its contributions to the development of modern wide-body aircraft.

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Values shown may not be 100% accurate, as some metrics are averages or only represent certain production years and configurations. Engine specs are based on the best options available.

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