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Boeing 747-8I vs. Airbus A330-300

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747-8I

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A330-300

Price (USD)
$418 Million$256 Million
First Flight
20111992
Body Type
Wide-bodyWide-body
Length
76 m250 ft
63 m208 ft
Wingspan
68 m224 ft
60 m197 ft
Wing Area
554 m²5,963 ft²
361 m²3,892 ft²
Fuselage Width
6 m21 ft
5 m18 ft
Height
19 m63 ft
16 m55 ft
Max Takeoff Weight
447,700 kg987,010 lbs
242,000 kg533,519 lbs
Number of Engines
42
Engine Options
General Electric GEnxGeneral Electric CF6 / Pratt & Whitney PW4000 / Rolls-Royce Trent 700
Max Thrust Per Engine
296 kN66,500 lbf
316 kN71,100 lbf
Max Total Thrust
1,184 kN266,000 lbf
632 kN142,200 lbf
Fuel Capacity
238,610 l63,034 gal
139,090 l36,744 gal
Range
14,310 km7,727 nm
11,750 km6,344 nm
Cruise Speed
907 km/h564 mph
870 km/h541 mph
Typical Seating
467 pax290 pax
Max Seating
660 pax440 pax

What Are the Differences Between the Boeing 747-8I and Airbus A330-300

Boeing 747-8I vs Airbus A330-300 Size Comparison

  • At 76.30 meters, the Boeing 747-8I is 12.60 meters longer than the Airbus A330-300.
  • With a wingspan of 68.40 meters, the Boeing 747-8I is 8.10 meters wider from wingtip to wingtip.
  • The Boeing 747-8I and Airbus A330-300 have heights of 19.40 meters and 16.80 meters respectively - making the Boeing 747-8I 2.60 meters taller.

Boeing 747-8I vs Airbus A330-300 Range

  • Boeing 747-8I’s range of 14,310 kilometers is greater than Airbus A330-300’s range of 11,750 kilometers. Therefore, the Boeing 747-8I can fly nonstop approximately 2,560 kilometers further.
  • The Boeing 747-8I can hold 63,034 gallons of fuel, which is 26,290 gallons more than the Airbus A330-300’s tank capacity of 36,744 gallons.

Boeing 747-8I vs Airbus A330-300 Seating

  • In a typical seating configuration, the Boeing 747-8I can accommodate 467 passengers, which is about 177 passengers more than Airbus A330-300’s seating capacity.
  • The Boeing 747-8I’s max seating capacity is 660 passengers, compared to 440 passengers of the Airbus A330-300.

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 A330-300

The Airbus A330-300, launched in the early 1990s, was the first variant of the A330 series. This wide-body, twin-engine aircraft was developed to address the requirements of medium to long-haul flights, offering a blend of capacity and range that has been appealing to airlines globally.

The A330-300 extends to a length of 208.9 feet (63.7 meters), with a wingspan of 197.8 feet (60.3 meters). It typically seats around 277 passengers in a standard three-class layout, with the flexibility to accommodate more in higher-density configurations. The spacious and adaptable cabin has been a key selling point, providing airlines with the ability to tailor the passenger experience to different market segments. Equipped with engines from Rolls-Royce, Pratt & Whitney, or General Electric, the A330-300 is known for its reliable and efficient performance. It has a maximum takeoff weight of about 533,500 lbs and can travel up to 6,350 nautical miles, enabling airlines to serve a wide range of international destinations. From the outside, the A330 is most distinguishable by its boxy winglets, wing-mounted fuel tanks, and tilted landing gear. On the inside, it seats eight-abreast, with a 2–4–2 economy class. Overall, it shares many design features from the A340 and A300.

Prominent operators of the Airbus A330-300 include Cathay Pacific, Turkish Airlines, Scandinavian Airlines, Saudia, and Delta Air Lines. These airlines have leveraged the aircraft's capacity and range for various operational needs, utilizing it for both high-density domestic flights and longer international services. The development of the A330-300 was driven by airline demand for a high-capacity, efficient, and versatile aircraft. Its operational role has been shaped by its ability to efficiently serve long-haul routes with significant passenger loads, meeting the evolving needs of the global aviation market.

Today, the Airbus A330-300 remains a vital component in the fleets of various airlines, a testament to its enduring utility and appeal. Its combination of passenger capacity, operational range, and efficiency continues to make it a valuable asset for airlines navigating the complexities of modern air travel. It most closely completes with the 767-400ER and 787-9 from Boeing.

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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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