According to sources like Times of India in 2024, the biggest plane based on maximum takeoff weight is the Antonov An-225 Mriya.
Despite the destruction of the first An-225, it is still often cited as the largest plane ever built and holds records for its size and cargo capacity. The reference lists it at the top based on its impressive specifications.
The Antonov An-225 Mriya had a maximum takeoff weight of 640 tonnes (1,400,000 lbs). While the first one was destroyed, its technical specifications still place it at the top of lists ranking the largest aircraft by weight capacity.
Here is a comparison of some of the largest airplanes in the world in 2024, based on Maximum Takeoff Weight, as reported by the reference:
| Rank | Aircraft | Maximum Takeoff Weight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Antonov An-225 Mriya | 640 tonnes (1,400,000 lbs) |
| 2 | Scaled Composites Stratolaunch | 600,000 pounds |
| 3 | Airbus A380-800 | 569 tonnes (1,254,000 lbs) |
| 4 | Lockheed C-5 Galaxy | 381 tonnes (840,000 lbs) |
(Information based on Times of India)
The Scaled Composites Stratolaunch is also a contender for largest by wingspan, but the An-225 surpasses it in maximum takeoff weight. The Airbus A380 is the largest passenger airliner.
