The Boeing 747 and Airbus A380 are two of the most iconic jumbo jets in aviation history, known for their massive size and double-decker design. These aircraft have been essential for long-haul travel, capturing the hearts of aviation enthusiasts and passengers alike. However, both the 747 and A380 are no longer in production, as Boeing and Airbus have officially ended their manufacturing programs. This means that, eventually, these giants of the sky will be retired without any new models to take their place. So, which of these legendary aircraft will bow out of passenger service first?
Currently, there are only a few passenger Boeing 747s still flying, while over 150 Airbus A380s remain active. Interestingly, the latest 747 model, the 747-8i, is newer than the A380, having been introduced five years later. Despite this, the A380 has a larger presence in the skies today, with more airlines operating it compared to the 747. As of mid-2025, ten airlines are flying the A380, with an additional operator, Global Airlines, having its sole A380 in storage. In contrast, only four airlines continue to operate the 747 for passenger flights. Both aircraft offer excellent seat capacity and are beloved by travelers, but their time is limited.
The pandemic saw the grounding of many A380s, and it seemed like some airlines might never bring them back. Emirates, which operates the majority of the A380 fleet, was an exception, but other airlines like Etihad Airways, Lufthansa, and Qatar Airways seemed ready to retire their A380s for good. However, delays in new aircraft deliveries, such as the 777X, have led some airlines to reconsider the A380’s role in their fleets. While some carriers have announced retirement plans, others are keeping their options open, recognizing the A380’s value in their operations. #Aviation #Boeing747 #AirbusA380 #JumboJets #AviationHistory
Originally reported by Simple Flying Read More
