Introduction
In recent years, the aviation industry has seen significant transformations, particularly with the phase-out of older, less efficient aircrafts during the early 2020s pandemic. This period marked the retirement of iconic jets like the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747. However, a number of these models, along with other large aircraft, remain in operation. As of 2025, here is a detailed exploration of the top 10 biggest commercial aircraft, ranked by their maximum exit limit capacities.
Criteria for Ranking
For this assessment, the ‘exit limit’ is utilized as the primary criterion for ranking. The exit limit refers to the maximum number of passengers an aircraft is certified to evacuate safely in 90 seconds, using only half of the available exits. This measure provides a realistic gauge of an aircraft’s capacity, although it is unusual for an aircraft to operate at this maximum in regular service.
10. Boeing 787-10
The Boeing 787-10, the largest variant of the Dreamliner series, boasts an exit limit of 440 passengers. Typically configured in a two-class setup, it seats around 330 passengers. This model, which competes directly with the Airbus A330 family, was introduced to replace older models like the Boeing 767. It offers a range of 6,330 nautical miles and features advanced efficiency and comfort, making it a popular choice among major airlines like United Airlines.
9. Airbus A350-900
With an identical exit limit of 440, the Airbus A350-900 shares the tenth spot. It typically accommodates 315 passengers in a two-class configuration. Known for its fuel efficiency and long-range capabilities (up to 8,300 nautical miles), the A350-900 is favored by airlines for long-haul international flights. Operators such as Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways benefit from its advanced technology and passenger comfort.
8. Airbus A330-300
Another Airbus model, the A330-300, also features an exit limit of 440. This aircraft is slightly smaller in terms of passenger capacity compared to the A350-900, typically seating about 300 passengers in a two-class layout. It serves as a workhorse for many airlines on medium to long-haul routes, offering a range of approximately 6,340 nautical miles.
7. Airbus A340-600
The Airbus A340-600, once the world’s longest commercial aircraft, is capable of carrying up to 440 passengers as per its exit limit. While less common in service today, it is still operated by airlines such as Lufthansa and SWISS. Its four-engine configuration and range of up to 7,800 nautical miles make it well-suited for very long-haul routes.
6. Airbus A330-900
The Airbus A330-900, or A330neo, is a more modern and efficient version of the A330 series, with an increased exit limit of 460. It offers a three-class configuration typically seating 310 passengers and features a range of 7,200 nautical miles. The A330-900’s enhancements include new engines and improved aerodynamics, making it a competitive option in the long-haul market segment.
5. Airbus A350-1000
Stepping up the capacity, the Airbus A350-1000 has an exit limit of 480 passengers. It is the largest variant of the A350 family, providing a two-class configuration typically for 369 passengers. With a range of 8,900 nautical miles, it is designed to compete against larger Boeing models while offering superior efficiency and comfort.
4. Boeing 777-300ER
The Boeing 777-300ER, known for its significant range and capacity, features an exit limit of 550. It generally accommodates 365 passengers in a three-class configuration and is one of the most popular and widely used aircraft for long-haul international flights. Its success has prompted Boeing to develop newer models like the 777X to build on its legacy.
3. Boeing 747-8
The iconic Boeing 747-8, with an exit limit of 605, continues the legacy of the 747 family as one of the largest and most recognizable aircraft in the sky. The 747-8 offers a three-class seating for 467 passengers and is utilized by major airlines for high-capacity long-haul routes. Despite being the last of its kind, the 747-8 remains a favorite for its nostalgic appeal and exceptional performance.
2. Boeing 747-400
Directly preceding its successor in size, the Boeing 747-400 has an exit limit of 660. This model has been foundational in shaping the modern long-haul market, offering a range of up to 7,670 nautical miles and typically seating 416 passengers in a three-class layout. Although it is being phased out, its impact on commercial aviation remains unparalleled.
1. Airbus A380-800
Topping the list, the Airbus A380-800 stands out with an impressive exit limit of 853. It typically accommodates 489 passengers in a three-class configuration, making it the largest passenger airliner in the world. Despite its phased production stop in 2021, the A380 continues to be a flagship for airlines like Emirates, which utilizes its massive capacity on high-demand routes, ensuring its continued presence in the skies for years to come.