Aircraft are designed to cover great distances with impressive speed. But which aircraft can fly the longest without needing to refuel? This article dives into the numbers, comparing some of the longest-range aircraft that are actively used by airlines or under serious development.

Comparison Criteria

To ensure a fair comparison, it’s essential to establish some ground rules. Firstly, only aircraft currently in operation by airlines or those in serious development are considered. Experimental prototypes that can circle the globe on a single tank are excluded, as they’re not available for commercial passenger travel. Additionally, we’re focusing solely on jet propulsion aircraft, omitting other forms of propulsion. We also look at the range provided by manufacturers based on fully loaded aircraft. An aircraft stripped of its interior and cargo could fly significantly further, but that’s not a realistic scenario for commercial travel.

Boeing 747SP

The story of long-range commercial flights begins with the Boeing 747SP. This aircraft was specifically designed for long-haul journeys, offering a range of 6,650 nautical miles (12,320 km). It was used on routes like the 5,320 nautical mile (9,850 km) nonstop flight between New York and Tehran.

Boeing 777-200LR and Airbus A340-500

Years later, the Boeing 777-200LR (Long Range) extended the limits with an incredible range of 8,555 nautical miles (15,843 km). Simultaneously, the Airbus A340-500 came onto the scene, boasting a massive 9,000 nautical mile (17,000 km) range, making it one of the longest-range aircraft ever built.

These aircraft held their own even after the arrival of new models like the Airbus A380, with a range of 8,000 nautical miles (14,800 km), and the Boeing 747-8I, which could fly 7,730 nautical miles (14,320 km).

Boeing 787 Dreamliner

Boeing continued pushing the boundaries with the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which became a popular choice for long-haul routes. Flights like the nonstop journey from Perth to London became possible with the Dreamliner’s range of 7,635 nautical miles (14,140 km). However, it still fell short of the record for the longest-range aircraft.

Airbus A350-900ULR

The current record-holder for the longest range is the Airbus A350, but not just any version. The standard A350 has an impressive range of 8,700 nautical miles (16,100 km). However, Airbus developed the A350-900ULR (Ultra Long Range) specifically for Singapore Airlines, pushing the limits to an astounding 9,700 nautical miles (18,000 km).

As it stands, the A350-900ULR is the reigning champion of long-range flights, with Boeing’s latest contender, the 777-8, still trailing behind in development. With no other major ultra-long-haul aircraft currently in production, it seems likely that the A350-900ULR will hold onto this title for several more years.

Out of all these aircraft, what is you favorite? Tell us in the comments section below.

• Featured image by Jeffry Surianto