What is the Largest Plane in the World?
The title of the world's largest aircraft was held by the Antonov An-225 Mriya. However, it was destroyed in 2022. Determining the current "largest" depends on the criteria used (wingspan, weight, length, etc.). While other contenders exist, the An-225's impressive specifications remain noteworthy.
The An-225 Mriya held the record for the largest airplane ever built. Its specifications were truly remarkable:
- Wingspan: 290 feet
- Length: 276 feet
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 640 tonnes (705 short tons) (Note: This figure differs slightly from the provided reference data of 1.41 million lbs, approximately 640 tonnes)
- Payload Capacity: 559,580 lbs (approx.)
- Role/Type: Cargo Aircraft
- Introduction of Service: 1988
- Current Status: Destroyed (2022)
- Production Numbers: 1 (only one was ever built)
The An-225's sheer size and capacity made it a unique aircraft in aviation history. Its capabilities allowed it to transport exceptionally large and heavy cargo, making it indispensable for various operations.
Other Contenders for the "Largest" Title
While the An-225 was undeniably the largest for a significant time, other aircraft could be considered the largest depending on the criteria:
- Airbus A380: This is the largest passenger aircraft currently in operation.
- Airbus BelugaXL: Often cited as the largest cargo plane in operation following the destruction of the An-225.
It's crucial to specify what metric defines "largest" (wingspan, weight, length, etc.) when comparing aircraft. The An-225 held records across several categories.
