In the constantly advancing world of aviation, where size frequently equates to capability, the title of the largest airplane in the world remains highly sought after. As of 2024, the Antonov An-225 stands out, redefining our understanding of what is possible in the skies. This article explores the impressive dimensions, innovative features, and the technological wonder that is the world’s largest airplane.
The Antonov An-225 “Mriya,” an aviation marvel, is unmatched in its category. Weighing a staggering 640 tonnes with an 88.4-meter wingspan, it first soared in 1988. Remarkably, only one exists, as the second unit remained incomplete post the Soviet Union’s collapse. Sadly, the operational An-225 was lost during the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. Despite this setback, plans for a $500 million reconstruction have been announced by the Ukrainian manufacturer, aiming to recover costs from Russia.
Antonov An-225 Mriya with the total length and wingspan of 84 meters and 88.4 meters respectively, holds the title of the biggest airplane in the world, followed by Scaled Composites Stratolaunch, Airbus A380-800 and Lockheed C-5 Galaxy.
Here is the list of top-10 biggest airplanes in the world:
| Top-10 Biggest Airplanes in the World | ||||
| Rank | Airplane | Maximum Takeoff Weight | Wingspan | Length |
| 1. | Antonov An-225 | 640 tonnes | 88.4 meters | 84 meters |
| 2. | Scaled Composites Stratolaunch | 1,300,000 pounds | 385 feet | 73 meters |
| 3. | Airbus A380-800 | 1.2 million pounds | 79.75 meters | 72.7 meters |
| 4. | Lockheed C-5 Galaxy | 840,000 pounds | 67 meters | 75 meters |
| 5. | Antonov An-124 Ruslan | 886,000 pounds | 276 feet | 69.1 meters |
| 6. | Boeing 747 | 735,000 pounds | 68.4 meters | 250 feet |
| 7. | Boeing Dreamlifter | 833,000 pounds | 64.4 meters | 71.68 meters |
| 8. | Antonov An-22 Antei | 551,160 pounds | 64.49 meters | 57.92 meters |
| 9. | XB-70 Valkyrie | 534,792 pounds | 32 meters | 57 meters |
| 10. | Airbus BelugaXL | 500,449 pounds | 60.3 meters | 63.1 meters |
At the zenith of aviation grandeur stands the Antonov An-225 “Mriya,” a peerless giant in a league of its own. Translating to “Dream” in Ukrainian, this engineering marvel, with a colossal 640-tonne takeoff weight, soared into the skies in 1988. Regrettably, the lone operational An-225 met its demise during the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. Plans for a $500 million resurrection, with costs aimed at Russian restitution, symbolize the determination to revive the world’s largest airplane.
Meet the Stratolaunch, also known as the Roc, a colossal aircraft conceived by Scaled Composites for air-launch-to-orbit (ALTO) rockets. Unveiled in December 2011 and airborne since April 13, 2019, it boasts a record-breaking wingspan of 385 feet, surpassing the Hughes H-4 Hercules “Spruce Goose.” Despite a brief hiatus after its 2019 debut, the Stratolaunch, with a 550,000-pound payload capacity and 1,300,000-pound takeoff weight, roared back to life under Cerberus Capital Management’s ownership, focusing on high-speed flight tests. As of April 2023, it stands as the second-largest operational airplane globally.
Introducing the Airbus A380-800, a marvel in aviation engineering by Airbus, redefining commercial air travel. This colossal wide-body aircraft boasts two full-length passenger decks accommodating 525 to 853 individuals, making it the world’s third-largest passenger airliner. Despite facing commercial challenges and ceasing production in 2021, the A380’s innovative design, advanced amenities, and continued operation ensure an awe-inspiring presence in the skies, captivating passengers and aviation enthusiasts alike.
Antonov An-225 Mriya with the total length and wingspan of 84 meters and 88.4 meters respectively, holds the title of the biggest airplane in the world.
The Airbus A380 is a very large wide-body airliner that was developed and produced by Airbus. It is the world's largest passenger airliner and only full-length double-deck jet airliner.
The top-3 biggest airplanes in the world are: Antonov An-225, Scaled Composites Stratolaunch and Airbus A380-800.
The Daily Current Affairs Quiz which keeps you updated with the current events happening all…
Traffic congestion is a serious problem in many Asian cities, affecting millions of people every…
Uttar Pradesh is a state rich in culture, history, and religious significance. Among its many…
Many countries around the world have unique nicknames that reflect their culture, history, or geography.…
The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims (WDR) is observed on the third…
On the occasion of the inauguration of Symbiosis International University’s first international campus at Dubai…