The Most Comfortable Commercial Aircraft, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the commercial aircraft you think is the most comfortable!

Updated on Apr 29, 2024 06:21

Traveling by air can often vary widely in terms of comfort. While one passenger might rave about their journey, another could find the same aircraft type less desirable. This difference in experience can largely be attributed to the seating, legroom, onboard services, and overall cabin environment. With such differing opinions, having a ranking of the most comfortable commercial aircraft can guide future passengers in making informed choices. Your votes help determine which airliners provide the most pleasant travel experiences, ensuring that your next booking is made with confidence.

What Is the Most Comfortable Commercial Aircraft?

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44
votes
Adam Moreira (AEMoreira042281) · CC BY-SA 4.0

Airbus A350XWB

Airbus

The A350XWB is known for its quiet and spacious cabin, larger windows, and advanced air filtration system that refreshes the cabin air every two to three minutes. The seats have more legroom and wider armrests, and the cabin is pressurized to a lower altitude, reducing jet lag.
The Airbus A350XWB (Extra Wide Body) is a long-range, twin-engine jet airliner that was designed and manufactured by Airbus. It was first delivered in 2014 and is renowned for its exceptional comfort and efficiency.

Passenger capacity: Typically seats 325 passengers in a three-class layout, but can accommodate up to 440 passengers.

Cabin width: The wide fuselage enables a spacious cabin with a width of 5.61 meters (18.4 feet), offering more room for passengers.

Range: Capable of flying up to 8,000 nautical miles (14,800 kilometers), allowing for non-stop long-haul flights.

Fuel efficiency: Features advanced aerodynamics and lightweight composite materials, resulting in 25% lower fuel consumption compared to previous aircraft models.

Quietness: The A350XWB incorporates noise-reducing technologies, making it one of the quietest aircraft in the sky.
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48
votes
Masakatsu Ukon · CC BY-SA 2.0

Boeing 787 Dreamliner

Boeing

The Dreamliner is also designed with larger windows, a lower cabin altitude, and better air quality. The seats are more comfortable, with adjustable headrests and footrests, and the lighting system can simulate a natural sunrise and sunset.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is a state-of-the-art wide-body airliner known for its advanced features and fuel efficiency. It represents a significant leap forward in aerospace technology and offers a more comfortable flying experience for passengers.

Cruising Speed: Mach 0.85 (567 mph, 913 km/h)

Range: 7,530 to 8,300 nautical miles (13,950 to 15,372 km)

Passenger Capacity: 242 - 335 passengers (depending on variant)

Fuel Efficiency: 20% more fuel-efficient than similar-sized aircraft

Materials: Extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber composites
Boeing 787 Dreamliner in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most comfortable passenger plane
- Position 2 of 10 in Most advanced airliner
- Position 3 of 10 in Most advanced vehicle
- Position 10 of 10 in Most advanced machine in the world
3

33
votes
Julian Herzog (Website) · CC BY 4.0

Airbus A380

Airbus SE

The A380 is the largest passenger aircraft in the world, with a spacious cabin that can accommodate up to 853 passengers. The seats are wider and have more legroom, and the cabin is designed with noise-reducing materials and technology.
The Airbus A380 is a double-deck, wide-body airliner known for being one of the most advanced commercial aircraft in the world. It was designed and developed by Airbus SE, a multinational aerospace company based in Europe. The A380 is recognized for its spaciousness, efficient fuel consumption, and cutting-edge technology.

First Flight: 27 April 2005

Length: 72.72 meters (238.7 feet)

Wingspan: 79.75 meters (261.6 feet)

Height: 24.09 meters (79.0 feet)

Maximum Seating Capacity: 853 passengers
Airbus A380 in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most comfortable passenger plane
- Position 1 of 10 in Most advanced airliner
- Position 4 of 10 in Most popular Airbus plane
- Position 4 of 10 in Most overrated plane
- Position 5 of 10 in Most advanced machine in the world
- Position 7 of 10 in Most difficult plane to fly
4

19
votes
Alan Edwards from Chessington, UK · CC BY-SA 2.0

Embraer E-Jets E2

Embraer

The E2 series features a modern cabin with larger overhead bins, more legroom, and bigger windows. The seats are more comfortable, with adjustable headrests and lumbar support, and the cabin is equipped with WiFi and power outlets.
The Embraer E-Jets E2 is a series of commercial aircraft developed by the Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer. It is an updated version of the original E-Jets family, offering improved fuel efficiency, increased range, and enhanced passenger comfort.

Maximum Range: up to 2,600 nautical miles

Maximum Seating Capacity: up to 146 passengers

Cabin Width: over 11 feet

Cabin Height: over 6 feet

Cabin Noise Reduction: up to 50% quieter than previous generation
Embraer E-Jets E2 in other rankings
- Position 4 of 10 in Most comfortable passenger plane
5

17
votes
Romain COUPY · CC BY-SA 4.0

Bombardier CSeries

Bombardier Aerospace

The CSeries boasts a spacious cabin with wider seats, more legroom, and bigger windows. The plane is designed with noise-reducing technology, and the cabin is pressurized to a lower altitude, reducing jet lag.
The Bombardier CSeries is a family of narrow-body, twin-engine, medium-range commercial aircraft designed for passenger comfort and efficiency. It is created by Bombardier Aerospace, a Canadian multinational aerospace manufacturer.

Range: up to 3,300 nautical miles

Seating Capacity: up to 160 passengers

Cabin Width: 3.28 meters

Cabin Height: 2.04 meters

Cabin Noise Level: virtually silent
6

13
votes
Konstantin von Wedelstaedt · GFDL 1.2

ATR 72

The ATR 72 is a regional aircraft with a comfortable cabin that features wider seats, more legroom, and overhead bins that can accommodate larger carry-on bags. The plane is designed for short-haul flights and has a low environmental impact.
The ATR 72 is a twin-engine turboprop regional aircraft known for its excellent comfort and performance. It is designed for short-haul flights, offering a comfortable and smooth ride to passengers.

Maximum Seating Capacity: Up to 78 passengers

Range: 1,528 nautical miles (2,827 kilometers)

Cruising Speed: 300 knots (555 km/h)

Engines: 2 x Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127F turboprop engines

Wingspan: 27.05 meters
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9
votes
Iberia Airlines · CC BY 2.0

Boeing 747

Boeing Commercial Airplanes

The 747 has been a popular choice for long-haul flights, with a spacious cabin that can accommodate up to 660 passengers. The seats are wider and have more legroom, and the cabin is designed with noise-reducing technology.
The Boeing 747, also known as the 'Jumbo Jet', is a wide-body commercial airliner that has been widely regarded as one of the most beautiful aircraft ever built. Its distinctive hump-shaped upper deck and graceful curves have made it an iconic symbol in the aviation industry.

First Flight: February 9, 1969

Length: 231 ft 10 in (70.66 m)

Wingspan: 195 ft 8 in (59.64 m)

Height: 63 ft 8 in (19.41 m)

Maximum Takeoff Weight: 987,000 lb (447,696 kg)
Boeing 747 in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular Boeing plane
- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular aircraft
- Position 4 of 10 in Most beautiful aircraft ever built
- Position 9 of 10 in Most difficult vehicle to drive
8

6
votes
Ken Fielding · CC BY-SA 3.0

Airbus A330

Airbus

The A330 is a popular choice for long-haul flights, with a spacious cabin that features wider seats, more legroom, and bigger overhead bins. The plane is designed with noise-reducing technology, and the cabin is pressurized to a lower altitude, reducing jet lag.
The Airbus A330 is a wide-body twin-engine commercial aircraft designed for long-haul flights. It is one of the most comfortable and versatile aircraft in its class, offering a spacious cabin and state-of-the-art amenities.

Seating Capacity: Typically 253-440 passengers

Range: Up to 7,250 nautical miles (13,420 km)

Cruising Speed: Mach 0.82 (880 km/h)

Wingspan: 197 ft 10 in (60.3 m)

Length: 209 ft 1 in (63.7 m)
Airbus A330 in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular Airbus plane
9

4
votes
Boeing 777

Boeing Commercial Airplanes

The 777 is a popular choice for long-haul flights, with a spacious cabin that features wider seats, more legroom, and a better air filtration system. The plane is designed with noise-reducing technology, and the cabin is pressurized to a lower altitude, reducing jet lag.
The Boeing 777 is a long-range wide-body twin-engine jet airliner designed for maximum passenger comfort and operational efficiency. It is renowned for its spacious cabin, advanced technology, and exceptional performance.

Seating capacity: Between 314 and 396 passengers in typical three-class seating configuration

Range: Between 5,235 and 8,555 nautical miles (9,695 to 15,844 km)

Cruising speed: Mach 0.84 (around 560 mph or 905 km/h)

Wingspan: 199 feet 11 inches (60.9 meters)

Length: 242 feet 4 inches (73.9 meters)
Boeing 777 in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most popular Boeing plane
- Position 4 of 10 in Most popular aircraft
10

9
votes
Alan Edwards from Chessington, UK · CC BY-SA 2.0

Embraer E190-E2

Embraer

The E190-E2 is a regional aircraft that features a modern cabin with wider seats, more legroom, and bigger windows. The plane is designed with noise-reducing technology and has a low environmental impact.
The Embraer E190-E2 is a commercial aircraft known for its exceptional comfort and advanced technology. It is specifically designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable flying experience for passengers.

Seating capacity: 97-114 passengers

Cabin height: 6.4 ft (1.95 m)

Cabin width: 8.8 ft (2.67 m)

Seat pitch: up to 33 inches (83.8 cm)

Range: up to 2,850 nautical miles (5,278 km)

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Ranking factors for comfortable commercial aircraft

Seat comfort

This includes seat size, width, legroom, recline angle, seat cushioning, and headrests. Wider, well-cushioned seats with ample legroom provide better comfort for passengers.
Cabin layout

The layout of the aircraft cabin, such as the number of aisles and the arrangement of seats, affects passenger comfort. A less crowded cabin with more space between seats gives passengers more room to move around.
Noise level

Quieter cabins provide a more comfortable flying experience.
In-flight entertainment

A variety and quality of in-flight entertainment options, such as audio and video systems, Wi-Fi connectivity, and charging outlets, can help make passengers feel more comfortable during the flight.
Air quality

The air circulation and quality in the cabin play a significant role in providing comfort to passengers during the flight. Good ventilation systems help avoid stale air and unpleasant odors.
Cabin cleanliness

Clean and well-maintained cabins provide a more comfortable environment for travelers.
Temperature

Consistent and appropriate cabin temperature throughout the flight ensures the comfort of passengers.
Lighting

The quality, type, and control of the lighting in the cabin contribute to the overall comfort and mood of passengers during the flight.
Storage space

Adequate overhead bin space and storage options contribute to the comfort of passengers by keeping their belongings easily accessible and organized.
Amenities

In-flight services, like food and beverage offerings, lavatories, and provision of blankets and pillows, also impact passenger comfort.
Aircraft age and type

Newer aircraft models often come with better-designed cabins and more advanced features that enhance passenger comfort. The type of aircraft and its design can also significantly impact how comfortable it feels to be onboard.
Passenger reviews and ratings

Studying reviews and ratings from fellow passengers can provide valuable insights into the comfort levels of a particular aircraft.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most comfortable commercial aircraft. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or airplane is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

6311 views
171 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each airplane once every 24 hours. The rank of each airplane is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most comfortable commercial aircraft

Commercial air travel has come a long way since the Wright brothers' first flight in 1903. Today, airlines around the world offer a range of aircraft options to their passengers, each with its own unique features and advantages. One aspect that is particularly important for travelers is comfort. With long-haul flights becoming increasingly common, passengers are looking for aircraft that provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience. So, what is the most comfortable commercial aircraft? Let's explore some of the options available and see which ones come out on top.