Boeing 777X weighs less than Airbus A380 but offers higher cargo volume

Although airlines such as Emirates made extensive use of the A380 on high-demand routes, declining orders led Airbus to end production by 2021.

Boeing's answer to evolving market needs is represented by the Boeing 777X family—specifically designed for efficiency over extreme capacity—with advanced materials like composites used for lighter weight while still maintaining long-range performance capabilities. "The Boeing 777X is the latest evolution of Boeing’s highly successful Boeing 777 family, developed to meet the growing demand for long-range, fuel-efficient widebody aircraft. Officially launched in 2013...incorporate advanced technologies including a new composite wing with folding wingtips..." Development has encountered delays due to engine certification issues and effects from global events such as COVID-19 but remains attractive among carriers looking for operational flexibility.

Comparing their weights illustrates these differences clearly: The maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of an Airbus A380-800 ranges between about 560–575 metric tons (1.23–1.27 million pounds), making it not only heavier than any other passenger jet but also reflecting its design intent—to maximize passenger load across two full decks powered by four engines.

By contrast, the larger variant of Boeing’s newest twinjet—the 777-9—has an MTOW around 365 metric tons (805 thousand pounds), over 190 metric tons lighter than an A380 despite offering seating above four hundred passengers due to modern materials and design efficiencies.

"The Airbus A380-800...has a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) ranging between 560,000 kg and 575,000 kg (around 1.23 to 1.27 million pounds). This immense weight reflects its design...Its operating empty weight (OEW) sits around 277,000 kg (611,000 lb), making it one of the heaviest commercial aircraft in history." For comparison: "the Boeing 777X...is significantly lighter...maximum takeoff weight is approximately 365 000 kg (805 000 lb)..."

Cargo capabilities also distinguish these jets: Despite its size advantage as a superjumbo airliner capable of carrying over eight hundred passengers all-economy or about five hundred fifty-five typical three-class layout travelers at once—the cargo hold on an A380 provides roughly 133 cubic meters (~4 700 cubic feet) according to HiFly data.

In contrast—and perhaps counterintuitively—the lower deck cargo volume available on a Boeing 777-9 reaches approximately 230 cubic meters (~8 100 cubic feet), exceeding that found on even this largest passenger airplane ever built.

Order numbers show shifting industry priorities: The discontinued Airbus A380 secured just over two hundred fifty total orders during production before market dynamics changed; meanwhile as of early September 2025 there are around four hundred sixty-four outstanding orders reported for various models within Boeing’s ongoing 777X program—a reflection of airlines’ current preference toward efficient twins able to serve diverse routes without sacrificing range or economy.

"This contrast in sales highlights changing priorities...While the A380 symbolized an era of superjumbo jets designed to maximize passenger loads on limited routes," current trends favor planes like "the 777X that balance capacity with efficiency..."

Ultimately each model represents distinct philosophies: With greater mass comes increased airport requirements limiting where an ultra-heavyweight like an A380 can operate; conversely lighter yet capacious designs such as those employed by today’s next-generation widebodies allow broader route flexibility alongside improved operational economics.

"The difference in weight also influences operational considerations such as fuel consumption,...and route flexibility....the choice between these two giants depends on how airlines balance capacity with efficiency..."