Lockheed C-5M Super Galaxy outpaces Airbus A380 only in length and cargo volume

In terms of cargo volume, the Super Galaxy offers over five times more space than its commercial counterpart—34,000 cubic feet versus about 6,190 cubic feet on a standard A380 configuration intended for passengers only.

Payload capacity also differs substantially due to their intended missions. The maximum payload for an Airbus A380 is around 185,000 lbs; this figure would have increased had a freighter version been developed but such plans never materialized. Meanwhile, "the C-5M Super Galaxy's maximum payload" reaches up to 280,000 lbs—a necessity for transporting heavy military equipment like tanks or helicopters.

Another notable difference lies in range and operational flexibility: “While the range of these aircraft varies depending on payload, the Airbus A380 is the clear winner.” At full passenger load (about 525 people), an A380 can fly approximately 8,000 nautical miles nonstop—far exceeding most other commercial jets currently operating worldwide [https://www.airbus.com/en/products-services/commercial-aircraft/passenger-aircraft/a350-xwb-family/a350-ultra-long-range]. By comparison, with a full load onboard, a C-5M Super Galaxy achieves about 2,300 nautical miles; without cargo but with aerial refueling capability it can remain airborne far longer if required.

Both planes are powered by four engines but use different models reflecting advances in technology over time and distinct performance needs: “These engines provide...51,000 lbf each or around 204,000 lbf in total,” said regarding General Electric F138-GE-100 engines on upgraded Galaxies; meanwhile Rolls-Royce Trent 900 or Engine Alliance GP7200 turbofans on an A380 deliver up to roughly “78,000 lbf each,” resulting in greater overall thrust suitable for large-scale passenger operations.

Production numbers further highlight their respective impacts: Only about half of all Galaxies built were later converted into modernized variants still flying today; many older models are stored at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base awaiting final disposition or parts reclamation [https://www.dm.af.mil/Units/309-AMARG/]. For Airbus’s part,“243” examples of its flagship double-decker were constructed before production ended amid shifting airline preferences toward smaller twin-engine jets [https://www.airbus.com/en/products-services/commercial-aircraft/passenger-aircraft/a380].

Looking ahead,"the A380 is likely to continue in Emirates service until the mid-2030s," while USAF expects some form of operational C-5 through at least part of next decade as well.

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