Airbus A340 operations: Airlines continue using older models despite high fuel costs

Surinam Airways has consistently used a specific A340-600 since September 2024 on its Paramaribo to Amsterdam route. The use of such quadjet equipment across various routes reflects both economic decisions—due to low ownership costs—and challenges related to high fuel consumption.

Lufthansa remains dominant with significant operations through Frankfurt Airport followed by key hubs like Tehran Imam Khomeini, Zurich, Dubai International, and Istanbul Airport. Nine U.S airports including Atlanta and New York JFK will also see these aircraft in February operated primarily by Lufthansa and Edelweiss.

Routes from Tehran Imam Khomeini rank highest globally with frequent connections to Istanbul Airport and Dubai International mainly serviced by Mahan Air using multiple variants of the A340.

For those interested in traveling between these destinations without requiring extensive transit visas—as seen on platforms like Turna—it is possible to book multi-leg trips featuring rare models such as the A340-200 depending on availability.

Overall more than eighty routes across thirty-eight countries will feature scheduled Airbus A340 flights during February offering unique opportunities amidst modern aviation fleets.