Top 6 Favorite Commercial Airplanes Explored
We aviation enthusiasts, or “avgeeks,” often hold some pretty heated opinions about aircraft. Some of us judge planes based on performance and passenger comfort, while others are drawn to their look or the roar of their engines. Today, I’m excited to share my personal favorites and invite you all to tell me about yours. Let’s dive in!
The Best Airplanes to Fly On (In My Opinion)
Join me as I take you through my top six commercial aircraft. A quick note before we start:
- This isn’t a universal top six list—it’s my personal preference when it comes to different types of aircraft, from the big jumbos to the smaller regional jets.
- We’ll focus on entire aircraft families, not specific models. For instance, I’m overlooking the difference between the A320neo and A321neo.
- Some aircraft I’ll highlight for their geek appeal, others for onboard comfort, and a few for a delightful mix of both.
Here’s my go-to lineup, starting with my top favorite…
Boeing 747 — Forever the Queen of the Skies
The top spot on my list inevitably belongs to the Boeing 747. Although it’s getting rarer in commercial service, it’s impossible to ignore its special aura. My avgeek heart flutters every time I catch a glimpse of this classic beauty. It has a timeless silhouette that turns heads, and the interior, especially if you’re privileged to sit in the nose, is a real treat.
The experience of ascending to the upper deck is unmatched—thanks to those legendary stairs. While the design may suggest a bygone era, its charm remains unrivaled. It’s tough to forget Lufthansa’s old 747-400 first-class setup. Such luxurious nostalgia!
Airbus A380 — A Comfortable Whale
The Airbus A380, with its two full decks, might resemble an overfed A319 at first glance, but don’t let that fool you. Inside, it’s a haven of quiet comfort. The cabin is wide, often featuring tail cameras, and provides outstanding range. Economy seats tend to be more spacious compared to the 777, and airlines have made the most of the space by adding unique luxuries like the Emirates first-class shower and business class bar.
Though the 747 is eye candy, flying the A380 is an experience unmatched.
Airbus A350 — The Plane of the Future
As airlines gradually retire the four-engine giants, the twin-engine wonders like the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 take the stage. My personal leanings favor the A350. It’s not just about its sleek look; the passenger experience mirrors the A380 with quiet, smooth flights. Moreover, the plane excels in payload and range, surpassing its competition like the 787-10. And while I tip my hat to the Boeing 777 for still holding strong after decades, I’m eagerly anticipating the debut of its newer sibling, the 777X.
Airbus A220 — The Most Comfortable Economy
The Airbus A220 stands out as possibly the most comfortable single-aisle jet available. Everything from its sleek design to the inside seating configuration — a roomy 2-3 setup — ensures comfort, with the widest economy seats in the sky. An astounding 80% of passengers grab a coveted aisle or window seat, thanks to its layout. This efficient marvel promises more enjoyable flights in the future.
Airbus A320neo Family — Better Than Boeing
The A320 family is a titan in the world of aviation. Given the choice between the widespread Boeing 737 and the A320, I’m firmly in the Airbus camp. The differences stretch far beyond its various models—from the A318 to the A321. Airbus pioneers in efficiency and range, highlighted by the A321XLR’s impressive capabilities. Airlines further sweeten the deal with enhanced offerings, like JetBlue’s Mint experience on transatlantic routes.
Embraer E175 — The King of Regionals
When it comes to regional jets, the Embraer E175 is in a category all its own. Its clever design gives it the vibe of a larger jet, complete with ample cabin space and overhead bins. First-class passengers appreciate the solitary seating in a 1-2 layout, while an all-pleasant 2-2 setup in economy means zero middle seats. This is one regional jet I won’t shy away from, even on lengthier journeys.
Bottom Line
Flying is my passion, and truth be told, I’m thrilled on just about any plane. Yet, I can’t deny I have favorites. The 747 and A380 are unmatched icons, each with its unique allure. For other categories, Airbus consistently wins my favor—be it the A350 over the 787 or the A320 over the 737. The A220 is a class apart in comfort, and the Embraer E175 is the standout regional jet.
I’ve had my say, so now it’s your turn. What are your go-to aircraft choices? Are you aligning with Val Seny ski resort or do you diverge? Let’s continue the conversation!