Quantcast

Aviation giants: comparing fuel efficiency of Airbus A380 vs Boeing 747

Southwest's layoffs dent its worker-first culture
Abu Dhabi's long-haul carrier Etihad Airways sees record $476 million profit in 2024
Jet2 warns of profits squeeze from rising costs and late bookings
Southwest bends further to activist shareholder Elliott's demands
Hong Kong Airlines launches daily Sydney flights
Airline to launch new bunk beds in economy on long-haul flights next year
How Airline Employees Are Coping After Deadly Washington Crash
Major airline reverses in-flight menu change amid outcry
British Airways frequent flyer scheme changes: everything you need to know
Airline introduces world-first hand luggage ban on popular travel gadget
Air Canada Delays Boeing 767 Reentry
Flight Centre tips ‘price war’ as first direct Melbourne to LA Delta flights go on sale
FAA reverses course on meeting prohibition, blaming rogue employee
British Airways tweaks frequent flyer scheme after backlash
Delta flight from New York to Florida diverted to North Carolina due to ‘odor in the cabin’
EASA Certifies Safran’s First Electric Motor
US court blocks Biden administration's airline fee disclosure rule
JetBlue Issues Dim Outlook But Execs Remain Confident in Turnaround Plan
Delta to Resume Tel Aviv Flights April 1
Boeing CEO Ortberg outlines 2025 priorities after heavy losses
Storm Eowyn: Thousands of trains, flights and ferries cancelled as 100mph wind batters UK
Indian carrier long haul: IndiGo returns to profitability, plans long haul flights
These Frequent Fliers Are Done With Loyalty Programs
JetBlue accepting Venmo as payment method for flights purchased through mobile app
United Airlines stock rallies on results, as growing demand wasn’t just about premium seats
Delta Adds Another Alaska Route
Southwest to Reduce Pilot Head Count at Several Bases
Dublin Airport savings boost for holidaymakers – but passengers need to be quick
American Halts CRJ-200 Operations
Shanghai Airlines to Launch Casablanca Route
Aviation giants: comparing fuel efficiency of Airbus A380 vs Boeing 747
Policy
Webp 380
Airbus A380 | Official Website

As the aviation industry continues to prioritize sustainability, questions about fuel efficiency between two iconic aircraft—the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747—are gaining attention. These aircraft have been pivotal in shaping commercial air travel, but their fuel efficiency has become a critical factor in today's environmentally conscious landscape.

The Airbus A380 generally surpasses the Boeing 747 in fuel efficiency per seat mile. This is attributed to its modern engines and larger passenger capacity, which distribute fuel consumption more effectively on a per-passenger basis. However, the Boeing 747-8 Intercontinental narrows this gap with its updated engines and aerodynamics.

According to data from Airbus, the A380 achieves approximately 0.1 miles per gallon (mpg), whereas the older Boeing 747-400 is around 0.2 mpg. Despite appearing less efficient at first glance, the A380's higher passenger capacity improves its mpg per seat on long-haul flights.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Fuel efficiency in these large aircraft is influenced by several factors including design, engine performance, passenger load, and flight length. The A380 benefits from advanced wing profiles and composite materials that enhance aerodynamics compared to older models like the 747-400.

Airlines have mixed opinions regarding these quadjets' operational costs and efficiency. Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker labeled the A380 as “the biggest mistake we ever made,” due to high maintenance and fuel costs. Conversely, Lufthansa supports the Boeing 747-8 for its range and cargo capacity.

Newer twin-engine aircraft like the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 offer better fuel efficiency than both jumbo jets. These modern planes are increasingly favored by airlines seeking sustainable operations with lower emissions.

In conclusion, while the Airbus A380 slightly edges out its rival in terms of fuel economy per seat mile, both are being overshadowed by newer twinjets that promise greater efficiency and flexibility.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

The Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor, known as the world's first fifth-generation fighter jet, has never been sold to other countries.

Jul 15, 2025

The F-15 Eagle, a fighter jet in service for nearly 50 years, remains a significant asset to the United States and several allied nations.

Jul 15, 2025

Which country operates the most superior reconnaissance aircraft in the world?

Jul 15, 2025

A United States senator has raised concerns about the proposed partnership between United Airlines and JetBlue, known as "Blue Sky."

Jul 15, 2025

The McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II, an iconic military aircraft, remains operational in limited numbers despite being over 60 years old.

Jul 15, 2025

Boeing's Dreamlifter aircraft has been making regular flights to Taranto-Grottaglie Airport in southern Italy, sparking curiosity among aviation enthusiasts and industry analysts.

Jul 15, 2025