Intro
Discover the largest flying machines in history! Explore the top 5 biggest aircraft ever built, featuring massive planes like the Antonov An-225, Airbus A380, and Boeing 747-8. Learn about their incredible size, capacity, and impressive specs, and find out what makes them the giants of the skies in commercial aviation and cargo transport.
The world of aviation has seen its fair share of massive aircraft over the years, each with its own unique characteristics and purposes. From military transport planes to commercial airliners, these behemoths of the skies have played a crucial role in shaping the history of flight. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the top 5 biggest aircraft ever built, highlighting their impressive specs, features, and accomplishments.
Ranking the Biggest Aircraft
To create this list, we've considered various factors such as wingspan, length, height, maximum takeoff weight, and payload capacity. Here are the top 5 biggest aircraft ever built, in no particular order:
1. Antonov An-225 Mriya
The Antonov An-225 Mriya, also known as the "Cossack," is a cargo aircraft that was designed by the Soviet Union in the 1980s. With a wingspan of 290 feet (88 meters) and a length of 275 feet (84 meters), it is the largest and heaviest aircraft ever built.
Key Features:
- Maximum takeoff weight: 640 tons
- Payload capacity: 250 tons
- Engines: 6 x ZMKB Progress D-18T turbofans
- Range: 4,000 miles (6,400 km)
2. Airbus A380
The Airbus A380 is a commercial airliner that was introduced in 2007. With a wingspan of 262 feet (80 meters) and a length of 239 feet (73 meters), it is one of the largest passenger aircraft in service today.
Key Features:
- Maximum takeoff weight: 590 tons
- Payload capacity: 590 passengers
- Engines: 4 x Engine Alliance GP7200 or Rolls-Royce Trent 900
- Range: 8,000 miles (13,000 km)
3. Boeing 747-8
The Boeing 747-8 is a commercial airliner that was introduced in 2011. With a wingspan of 195 feet (59 meters) and a length of 250 feet (76 meters), it is one of the largest passenger aircraft in service today.
Key Features:
- Maximum takeoff weight: 440 tons
- Payload capacity: 416 passengers
- Engines: 4 x General Electric GEnx
- Range: 8,000 miles (13,000 km)
4. Lockheed C-5 Galaxy
The Lockheed C-5 Galaxy is a military transport aircraft that was introduced in the 1970s. With a wingspan of 222 feet (68 meters) and a length of 247 feet (75 meters), it is one of the largest military aircraft in service today.
Key Features:
- Maximum takeoff weight: 430 tons
- Payload capacity: 270,000 pounds (122,470 kg)
- Engines: 4 x General Electric TF39
- Range: 4,000 miles (6,400 km)
5. Airbus A340-600
The Airbus A340-600 is a commercial airliner that was introduced in 2002. With a wingspan of 198 feet (60 meters) and a length of 247 feet (75 meters), it is one of the largest passenger aircraft in service today.
Key Features:
- Maximum takeoff weight: 420 tons
- Payload capacity: 440 passengers
- Engines: 4 x Rolls-Royce Trent 500
- Range: 7,800 miles (12,600 km)
Gallery of Large Aircraft
Large Aircraft Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the largest aircraft ever built?
+The largest aircraft ever built is the Antonov An-225 Mriya, which has a wingspan of 290 feet (88 meters) and a length of 275 feet (84 meters).
What is the largest passenger aircraft in service today?
+The largest passenger aircraft in service today is the Airbus A380, which can carry up to 590 passengers.
What is the largest military aircraft in service today?
+The largest military aircraft in service today is the Lockheed C-5 Galaxy, which has a wingspan of 222 feet (68 meters) and a length of 247 feet (75 meters).
As we conclude our list of the top 5 biggest aircraft ever built, it's clear that these massive machines have played a significant role in shaping the history of aviation. From commercial airliners to military transport planes, each of these aircraft has its own unique characteristics and features that set it apart from the rest. Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or simply interested in learning more about these incredible machines, we hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the world of large aircraft.