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Comparison shows how dimensions differ between Boeing's flagship long-haul jets

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Comparison shows how dimensions differ between Boeing's flagship long-haul jets
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CEO Kelly Ortberg | Boeing

The Boeing 777-300ER and the Boeing 747-400 are two of the most well-known widebody airliners in recent aviation history. The 777-300ER, currently the largest twinjet in service, is also the most successful variant of the Boeing 777 family. Its introduction contributed to the decline in demand for four-engine aircraft like the Boeing 747-400.

The Boeing 747-400 played a major role in expanding long-haul travel, making routes such as those between the US East Coast and Asia more accessible. Although earlier versions of the 747 were among the longest-ranged airliners of their time, by the time of its introduction, the 747-400's range was comparable to newer aircraft including the 777-300ER and Boeing 787.

While comparing these two models, it is important to note that although the 777-300ER is longer at 242 ft 4 in (73.86 m) compared to the 747-400’s length of 231 ft 10 in (70.7 m), other factors contribute to overall size. The wingspan of both aircraft is similar: 212 ft 7 in (64.80 m) for the 777-300ER and slightly less for the 747-400 at 211 ft 5 in (64.44 m). However, when it comes to maximum takeoff weight (MTOW), the advantage goes to the four-engine jumbo jet; the standard MTOW for a Boeing 747-400 is up to approximately 396.8 tonnes (with some variants reaching over 412 tonnes), while that of a Boeing 777-300ER is around 351 tonnes.

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In terms of fuselage dimensions, while most modern configurations for both aircraft offer ten-abreast seating in economy class, the wider body and distinctive upper deck of the Boeing 747 provide additional volume compared to its twinjet successor. The wing area on a standard Boeing 747 model is also larger than that on a Boeing 777.

Sales figures reflect these trends: nearly all airlines have transitioned from using four-engine planes like the Boeing 747 toward more fuel-efficient twinjets such as those from Boeing’s successful widebody program—the Boeing 777. Since its debut in 2004, there have been over 833 deliveries of the Boeing 777-300ER, making it by far the most popular version of its family. In contrast, sales for later versions of the Boeing 747 dwindled: only about 155 units were sold for its final passenger/freighter variant, with many orders focused on cargo operations rather than passenger service.

Engine technology also marks a significant difference between these jets. The GE90 engines used on second-generation Boeings—including exclusive updates for this series—helped boost performance and efficiency well beyond initial expectations for long-range flights.

Looking ahead, new developments continue with models like the upcoming Boeing 777X program. The flagship model, known as the Boeing 777-9, will become even longer than previous record holders such as th eBoeing 747‑8 and feature advanced composite wings with greater span than any previous commercial jet from Boeing.

"The plane will feature brand new carbon-composite wings that will span 235 ft 7 in (71.8 m). This makes them the widest wings of any Boeing airliner, including the 747‑8," according to industry sources.

As airlines look toward fleet renewal strategies prioritizing operational flexibility and lower costs per seat mile—a trend reflected by Lufthansa’s decision to replace remaining older jumbos with next-generation twinjets—the role once held by iconic four-engine aircraft has largely shifted toward newer designs like those found within today’s extended-range widebody market.

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