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Airbus A321XLR vs. Airbus A380-800

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A321XLR

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A380-800

Price (USD)
$129 Million$445 Million
First Flight
20222005
Body Type
Narrow-bodyWide-body
Length
44 m146 ft
72 m238 ft
Wingspan
35 m117 ft
79 m261 ft
Wing Area
122 m²1,317 ft²
845 m²9,095 ft²
Fuselage Width
4 m13 ft
7 m23 ft
Height
11 m38 ft
24 m79 ft
Max Takeoff Weight
101,000 kg222,667 lbs
575,000 kg1,267,658 lbs
Number of Engines
24
Engine Options
CFMI LEAP-1A / P&W PW1000GEA GP7200 / Rolls-Royce Trent 900
Max Thrust Per Engine
151 kN34,000 lbf
311 kN70,000 lbf
Max Total Thrust
302 kN68,000 lbf
1,244 kN280,000 lbf
Fuel Capacity
39,500 l10,435 gal
320,000 l84,535 gal
Range
8,704 km4,700 nm
15,000 km8,099 nm
Cruise Speed
832 km/h517 mph
903 km/h561 mph
Typical Seating
220 pax555 pax
Max Seating
244 pax853 pax

What Are the Differences Between the Airbus A321XLR and Airbus A380-800

Airbus A321XLR vs Airbus A380-800 Size Comparison

  • At 72.70 meters, the Airbus A380-800 is 28.20 meters longer than the Airbus A321XLR.
  • With a wingspan of 79.80 meters, the Airbus A380-800 is 44 meters wider from wingtip to wingtip.
  • The Airbus A321XLR and Airbus A380-800 have heights of 11.80 meters and 24.10 meters respectively - making the Airbus A380-800 12.30 meters taller.

Airbus A321XLR vs Airbus A380-800 Range

  • Airbus A380-800’s range of 15,000 kilometers is greater than Airbus A321XLR’s range of 8,704 kilometers. Therefore, the Airbus A380-800 can fly nonstop approximately 6,296 kilometers further.
  • The Airbus A380-800 can hold 84,535 gallons of fuel, which is 74,100 gallons more than the Airbus A321XLR’s tank capacity of 10,435 gallons.

Airbus A321XLR vs Airbus A380-800 Seating

  • In a typical seating configuration, the Airbus A380-800 can accommodate 555 passengers, which is about 335 passengers more than Airbus A321XLR’s seating capacity.
  • The Airbus A380-800’s max seating capacity is 853 passengers, compared to 244 passengers of the Airbus A321XLR.

About the Airbus A321XLR

The Airbus A321XLR is an extra long range variant of the A321neo. Unveiled at the Paris Air Show in 2019, the A321XLR represents a groundbreaking evolution in narrow-body aircraft for long-haul travel. Boasting an exceptional range of up to 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 kilometers), this is a significant leap from its predecessor, the A321neo. Enhancements in range stem from enhanced fuel capacity and aerodynamic improvements position the XLR as a leading choice for airlines in need of efficient, longer-range single-aisle aircraft. 

The A321XLR's development is a continuation of the A320 family's legacy of innovation, which began with the A320's introduction in the 1980s and expanded with the A321's launch in the 1990s as a stretched variant. As the newest member of this distinguished lineage, the A321XLR has been engineered to deliver unparalleled fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions, key factors that align with the aviation industry's escalating focus on sustainability. These advancements are achieved through state-of-the-art engine optimizations and refined aerodynamics, including new wingtip designs.

The introduction of the A321XLR is particularly significant in its ability to transform the dynamics of long-haul travel. Its extended range capability enables it to operate transatlantic routes and other long-haul flights, which were previously the domain of larger twin-aisle aircraft. This feature opens up new possibilities for airlines to explore longer, thinner routes that are not economically viable with larger aircraft, allowing for more direct flights and enhanced route networks. The A321XLR's appeal is evident in its rapidly growing list of global customers, including major airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, Qantas, and AirAsia. These operators recognize the A321XLR's potential to revolutionize their fleet capabilities, providing the flexibility to service a wider array of destinations more efficiently and sustainably. The aircraft's unique combination of range, efficiency, and single-aisle economics makes it a strategic asset for airlines looking to expand their reach while minimizing environmental impact.

In essence, the Airbus A321XLR is poised to redefine the parameters of single-aisle long-haul aviation, offering an innovative solution that marries extended range with environmental consciousness and operational efficiency. Its introduction marks a significant milestone in commercial aviation, reflecting a shift towards more versatile, sustainable, and economically viable air travel solutions in the global market.

About the Airbus A380-800

The Airbus A380-800, introduced in 2005, is a landmark in aviation history as the world's largest passenger airliner. This double-deck, wide-body, four-engine extra large jet was developed by Airbus to address the need for high-capacity, long-haul air travel, revolutionizing the concept of a 'superjumbo' aircraft.

Measuring 72.7 meters (238.5 feet) in length with a wingspan of 79.8 meters (261.8 feet), the A380-800 is distinguished by its sheer size and capacity. It is designed to accommodate 555 passengers in a typical three-class configuration, making it ideal for high-demand routes and hub-to-hub travel. The aircraft's expansive wing area of 845.0 square meters (9,095.5 square feet) contributes to its lift and efficiency, supporting its substantial size.

The A380 is powered by four engines - either Engine Alliance GP7200 or Rolls-Royce Trent 900 turbofans. It achieves a total thrust of 1,244.0 kN (280,000 lbf), enabling extra long-range operations. The aircraft's impressive fuel capacity of 320,000 liters (84,535 US gallons) supports a range of up to 15,000 kilometers (8,099 nautical miles). Its cruise speed of 903 km/h (561 mph) allows for efficient long-haul travel, reducing flight times on major international routes.

In the commercial aviation market, the Airbus A380-800 competes with large aircraft like the Boeing 747. It has been particularly favored by airlines for routes with high passenger volume, leveraging its capacity to maximize efficiency and profitability on busy corridors.

Before deliveries for the aircraft began, some major airports needed upgrades in order to accommodate the giant airliner. Due to its enormous wingspan and wide landing gear, it can only operate at airports with the proper runways and taxiways. Moreover, airports needed modified jet bridges to efficiently board and deplane passengers.

Major operators of the A380-800 include Emirates, Singapore Airlines, British Airways, Qatar Airways, and Lufthansa. These airlines have utilized the aircraft's unique capacity and range for flagship long-haul services, capitalizing on its ability to carry a large number of passengers while offering enhanced comfort and amenities.

The development of the Airbus A380-800 was a response to the growing demands of the airline industry for an aircraft that could transport more passengers over long distances without the need for a stopover. Its introduction marked a significant achievement in aircraft engineering and design, showcasing Airbus's ability to push the boundaries of commercial aviation.

Today, the Airbus A380-800 stands as a symbol of the evolution of air travel, reflecting the industry's shift towards larger, more efficient aircraft for mass transit. While its production has ceased, the A380-800 continues to be a marvel in aviation, representing a unique period in the history of commercial flight where size and passenger capacity reached new heights.

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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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