Us avgeeks can often have pretty strong aircraft preferences. Sometimes our picks are rational (like based on a plane’s capabilities, passenger comfort, etc.), while other times we just like the way a plane looks or sounds. In this post I thought it would be fun to share my favorite aircraft, and then I’d love to hear what planes OMAAT readers like most.
In this post:
The best airplanes to fly on (in my opinion)
In this post I wanted to share my six favorite types of commercial aircraft. Before I do so, a few things to note:
- I’m not listing my six favorite planes in absolute terms, but rather I want to list my plane preferences across the spectrum, from jumbo jets to regional jets; in other words, what’s my favorite regional jet, what’s my favorite mainline narrow body jet, etc.?
- I’ll only be mentioning entire aircraft “families,” so I’m not differentiating the A320neo from the A321neo, for example
- As you’ll see, some planes I love purely for avgeek reasons, some planes I love for onboard comfort, and most I love for a combination of both
Here are my favorites, roughly in order (starting with my favorite):
Boeing 747 — forever the queen of the skies
I feel like I’d be betraying my inner avgeek if I didn’t put the Boeing 747 first on the list. While the plane is slowly disappearing from commercial service, and while it’s not the most modern jet, there’s something so special about the plane, and I can’t help but get giddy every time I see it.
Surely we can all agree the plane is gorgeous and iconic from the outside… look at those curves!
But it’s not just the outside that’s a treat — the inside is awesome as well, especially if you can sit in the nose, where you’re literally seated under the cockpit.
The upper deck is pretty nifty as well, and if you use your imagination, you can just pretend that it’s an all-business class jet, and that there’s nothing downstairs. And while the 747 has steep stairs you have to climb to get to the upper deck, I almost prefer that to just boarding directly to the upper deck of the A380. There’s something so special about climbing up those stairs.
While we’re taking a trip down memory lane, anyone else remember Lufthansa’s old 747-400 first class, which consisted of both a seat and a separate bed? Ahhh, those were the days…
Airbus A380 — a comfortable whale
With its two full decks, the Airbus A380 lacks the sleek curves of the Boeing 747. Quite to the contrary, it kind of looks like a swollen Airbus A319 that had an allergic reaction to something.
Fortunately the A380 delivers when it comes to the experience onboard — the plane is incredibly quiet, the cabin is wide, there are typically tail cameras passengers can watch, and the plane has incredible range.
Thanks to the cabin’s width, economy is generally much more comfortable than on planes like the Boeing 777. On top of that, thanks to the design of the A380, airlines have often installed special amenities on the planes, like Emirates’ A380 first class shower and business class bar.
While the Boeing 747 is my favorite plane to look at, the Airbus A380 is hands down my favorite plane to fly on.
Airbus A350 — the plane of the future
Double decker planes with four engines will eventually be a thing of the past, as airlines instead focus on planes with two engines that still have incredible range. That includes the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787, and personally I have a preference for the A350.
Not only is the A350 a sleek plane from the outside (I love the cockpit windows, the winglets, etc.), but it features a great passenger experience. In many ways it reminds me of the A380 — the plane is quiet and smooth, there’s typically a tail camera passengers can watch, and economy is even quite comfortable.
I also prefer the A350 to the 787 because the plane is simply more capable in terms of payload and range. For example, just compare the A350-1000 to the 787-10.
Airbus A220 — the most comfortable economy
The Airbus A220 is a unique plane, and is arguably the most comfortable narrow body jet out there. The plane is gorgeous on the outside, from the curves, to the cockpit windows, to the winglets.
Even inside, the plane is exceptionally comfortable. The cabin is only in a 2-3 configuration (rather than a 3-3 configuration), and features the widest economy seats in the industry. On top of that, thanks to the layout, 80% of passengers have either an aisle or window seat.
Add in absolutely incredible range and economics, and this plane is a winner that I look forward to flying more and more.
Airbus A320neo family — better than Boeing
The Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 are the backbone of short and medium haul global commercial aviation. Between those two planes, I have a strong preference for the A320.
For one, the A320-family product offering is much more diverse. Not only does it stretch all the way from the A318 to the A321 (in terms of size), but Airbus has also done an incredible job with improving fuel efficiency and range on these planes. Shortly Airbus will launch the A321XLR, which will be the longest range narrow body plane in the world. Boeing hasn’t even announced a competitor to that.
But even beyond that, it’s awesome to see what airlines have done with the Airbus A320-family. For example, it’s what JetBlue uses for its transatlantic flights, and the Mint product is gorgeous.
In economy I also find the Airbus A320 to be more comfortable than the Boeing 737. The cabin on the A320 is several inches wider than on the 737, and that translates into wider seats, even in economy. Every inch (or portion of an inch) counts!
Embraer E175 — the king of regionals
The Embraer E175 is in a league of its own among regional jets. Unlike planes like the CRJ-700, the Embraer E175 really feels like a big jet, in terms of the cabin, overhead bins, etc.
Once onboard, I like the 1-2 layout in first class, as it’s always nice to be able to sit alone if you’re not traveling with anyone.
Even in economy the 2-2 layout is pleasant, since there are no middle seats.
While I’d usually try to avoid regional jets, the Embraer E175 is one plane I don’t mind flying, even on longer flights.
Bottom line
The truth is that I’m happy flying just about any plane, because I love flying. Even so, there’s no denying that not all planes are created equal, and we all have our favorites.
Personally I love the 747 and A380, and refuse to decide between them, because they’re different beasts to me. Aside from that, for me it’s Airbus ahead of Boeing for all mainline jets — I prefer the A350 to the 787, the A320 to the 737, and I love the A220. Then if you’re going to be flying a regional jet, the Embraer E175 is the way to go.
What are your airplane preferences? Are you also #TeamAirbus for the most part?
I agree with your assessment currently. But the best plane ever made was the Boeing 757 - Hands down.
I agree with most off the article. However, I have a couple of comments about the A350 vs the 777. I have flown premium economy on two different airlines' A350s. The outboard overhead bins ion both airlines hang out over the aisle far enough and the seats in the center section extend out past the edge of the center bins.-This results in passengers walking down the aisle bumping into seated passengers in the center section....
I agree with most off the article. However, I have a couple of comments about the A350 vs the 777. I have flown premium economy on two different airlines' A350s. The outboard overhead bins ion both airlines hang out over the aisle far enough and the seats in the center section extend out past the edge of the center bins.-This results in passengers walking down the aisle bumping into seated passengers in the center section. This is not the case in the regular economy section. Bins tailored to the premium economy layout would be much better for that section. 777 bins do not have that problem, at least on Delta.
The Delta A350 premium economy seats are less flexible and less comfortable for my 6'2" 190# body than the 777s' seats in the same class. Airbus planes in general including the A350s seem to transmit more noise into the cabin than the 777- loud jackscrew noises with flap deployment and more clunks from landing gear deployment and retraction vs much quieter 777s' cabin during those functions.
which is the most comfortable aircraft to fly from sydney to Milan or Rome in economy seating
Recently flew in an E175 (Alaska Premium Economy). Really like the spacious seating. The only quirk with this ultranarrow-body plane was that I had to turn my overhead carry-on luggage sideways in the bin.
What about the 777-300ER?
Could not agree more, especially the comments on the 747 ("I can’t help but get giddy every time I see it.") and bloated A380
Hey Ben,
Big fan here. Mostly agree, A220, B787-9, A350 900 and of course B747-8. Enjoy your postings so much.
Neil
No 777? Come on Lucky.
For me, nothing still beats the thrust and thrill of a 777 taking off. Yes, the noise too. It's also gorgeous from the outside.
Years ago, my family of 3 had first-class award tickets on a LH 747-400, upper deck, BOM-FRA. We board, get settled, and wait for the other passengers - but none show up. Eventually, they announce the aircraft doors are closed, and the FA comes by to tell us she'll be taking care of just us on this flight. WOW! Having the upper deck to ourselves - especially with those separate beds! - was even better...
Years ago, my family of 3 had first-class award tickets on a LH 747-400, upper deck, BOM-FRA. We board, get settled, and wait for the other passengers - but none show up. Eventually, they announce the aircraft doors are closed, and the FA comes by to tell us she'll be taking care of just us on this flight. WOW! Having the upper deck to ourselves - especially with those separate beds! - was even better than I imagined flying private to be.
Only problem is that it spoiled my then-8-year-old daughter for good. She looks at me like I have two heads if I tell her we'll be in economy.
You pretty much nailed it, except for missing arguably the best long-haul Y experience which is the A330. With very few exceptions, you get the same wide seats as the A380 but in a 2-4-2 config that's eons more favorable unless you're stuck in the middle pair. And even then, it blows most 777 or 787 Y cabins out of the water. (Yes, JL still has some Sky Wider Y cabins on their Boeings but those are a dying breed in the world.)
One other comment/question, do any airlines other than the ones listed below offer commercial flights on the 747 anymore? There really are such few options left for flying on this plane.
Air China
Korean Air
Lufthansa
Mahan Air
For those that fly a lot, does anyone have a preference for which aircraft handles turbulence better and whether there is a marked difference between Boeing and Airbus jets in handling turbulence?
A380!
for domestic ops, the 737 can usually fly higher than the A320 series (depends on the variant, but usually true) so you can often have the ability to avoid more turbulence on the 737.
Especially true if your choice is an A321 vs 737 since the A321 struggles to climb much above 32kft (it obviously does but it struggles to do it while maintaining range)
787 and A350 are both able to climb more...
for domestic ops, the 737 can usually fly higher than the A320 series (depends on the variant, but usually true) so you can often have the ability to avoid more turbulence on the 737.
Especially true if your choice is an A321 vs 737 since the A321 struggles to climb much above 32kft (it obviously does but it struggles to do it while maintaining range)
787 and A350 are both able to climb more easily than a 777. You'll often see both new planes about 4-5kft higher than a 777.
Don't think that JetBlue is an Airbus A321LR....
I know I have written this comment before, but as this post has been up before I suppose it is OK. :)
The A220 is nice, but the 2-3 setup of economy means that the aisle is not in the middle of the cabin, but the overhead bins are equally big, meaning when open the bins on the 2 seat side reach out over the aisle. And it is very easy to hit your head, especially if you walk past a number of closed bins, and suddenly comes to an open bin.
the bins on the 2 seat side of the A220 are not the same size (smaller) as on the 3 seat side.
They are on Swiss and Air France. Which are the airlines I have flown the A220 on. And the picture Ben posted from Air Baltic clearly also same size on both sides. And I have friends complaining about the same issue, though I don't know what airlines they flew the A220 on.
Surprised the 757 isn’t here
Absolutely! Probably the best aircraft ever built.
careful there, Ben. You have just demonstrated a strong preference for Airbus over Boeing products.
I agree with you and your assessment is driven by the fact that Airbus developed most of its products after Boeing delivered its comparable product so Airbus had the chance to do each one just a little bit better.
The A220 was acquired from Bombardier so you have to give credit to them for having the guts to try to...
careful there, Ben. You have just demonstrated a strong preference for Airbus over Boeing products.
I agree with you and your assessment is driven by the fact that Airbus developed most of its products after Boeing delivered its comparable product so Airbus had the chance to do each one just a little bit better.
The A220 was acquired from Bombardier so you have to give credit to them for having the guts to try to take on the Airbus/Boeing duopoly even if they did not succeed commercially.
The A350 is simply the best longhaul new generation aircraft family and that will increasingly be seen as airlines announce new routes with the latest versions of the A350 family which can do 18 hour flights in standard configurations.
"You have just demonstrated a strong preference for Airbus over Boeing products."
And that could be bad why, exactly?
nobody said it was bad.
But there will be plenty of people that will believe he is wrong. IN a duopoly, one manufacturer should not get the majority of preference if both were on equal footing.
IN reality, Boeing is holding onto its market share by discounting - partly due to paying customer compensation due to delivery delays - and that is why Boeing is performing worse than Airbus financially -but neither are in great financial position
Then why even bring it up?
Because Ben accurately notes that Airbus products are superior in many regards even if saying so will tick off some people.
You really don’t have to argue incessantly
The only person it seems to have triggered is you, nobody has yet to mention it but you. So I don't think anyone cares if Ben has a preference or not...well, you seem to.
Also, the irony of you of all people bringing up someone else arguing incessantly lol
the only person that has contributed absolutely nothing to the topic being discussed is you.
to ABSOLUTELY no surprise.
My favorite airplane is the one that lands safely, and on time...
If I recall correctly, I believe the max width in the A320 family is at shoulder height, while in the 737 is lower down. Also, the windows are at a much more comfortable height. They also don’t fall out of the sky, which I think is the most underrated feature of all.
Lucky,
Any reason for singling out the Embraer E175 rather than the E-jet family as a whole? Just curious since you picked the A320 family as a whole rather than one particular variant from that group.
Yeah, what's wrong with the 170, 190 and 195 (E2)?
Maybe it's a Goldilocks thing? The 170 is too small, the 190/195 too big, but the 175 is just right?
@Julia I remember reading a version of his dedicated E175 article where he says he's talking about this variant specifically because it's the one he finds himself most on, and all his comments praising the 175 also go apply to the E170, 190, and 195. Not sure if the current posted version of the article still says it, but I've definitely read one where it does.
Does anyone else have fond memories of the 747's toilet with a window?
The A220 (at least on Delta) has this too!
Lots of airlines and planes have it. ANA even in economy on some of their 787s.
I feel A380 also depends on class of service. First is always great but I feel business is usually not. Cabins too big/noisy or 2x2x2 config and I never really love those flights.
While I agree with you in most preferences, I'm not a fan of the 747. My ultimate preference goes to the A346 and of course the previous Singapore Airlines' A345 for the SIN-EWR back in time.
I still quite amazed you didn't mentioned the A346. But everybody has his/her choices of course.
not a complain, but… why is there so little love for the 777? i love it
The all-too-common 3-4-3 seating in the back. Most airlines have it on their 777s. When it's 3-3-3, well that's different and I agree with you then.
I used to love the old 2-5-2 layout on the 777. Great for couples and families of 4 and only 1 person has to push past 2 others to get out. Even then, they have a choice of 2 aisles so it was much easier to get out. Shame that layout is long gone.