Airbus A350: Aircraft Type Review
Airbus's modern widebody competitor to the 787. Lower cabin altitude, modern systems, longer range than 787-9. Increasingly common on international routes since 2017. Most operators install 1-2-1 business class as standard.
Manufacturer: Airbus · Capacity: Up to 410 passengers (A350-1000) / typical 280-350
Best premium products on this aircraft
- Singapore Airlines business class (1-2-1 with sliding doors)
- Lufthansa Allegris business (newest LH product)
- Air France business class (A350-900)
- Cathay Pacific business class (A350)
- Qatar Qsuite (some A350 routes)
- Etihad business class A350
Airlines operating the Airbus A350
- Singapore Airlines (largest A350 operator)
- Lufthansa Allegris (latest LH product on A350)
- Air France (A350-900)
- Cathay Pacific (A350-900, A350-1000)
- Qatar Airways (A350-900, A350-1000)
- Delta Air Lines (Delta One Suites on A350)
- Etihad Airways (A350)
- Emirates (entering service)
Cabin pros
- Lower cabin altitude (similar to 787)
- Wider cabin than 787 (allows for more spacious business class)
- Modern, efficient design
- Quieter than older widebodies
- 1-2-1 business class layout standard on most operators
- Longer range than 787-9 (A350-900ULR can fly Singapore-NYC nonstop)
Cabin cons
- Newer aircraft — some airlines still equipping fleets
- Operator inconsistency in business class generation
- Some economy seat configurations are tight (3-3-3 layout)
Common routes for the Airbus A350
- Singapore-NYC (longest commercial flight)
- Europe-Asia (Lufthansa, Air France)
- US-Europe (Delta, Air France)
- US-Asia (Cathay, Singapore)
FAQ
Is the A350 better than the 787?
Slightly. The A350 has a larger fuselage allowing more spacious cabins, and slightly longer range. The 787 has slightly lower cabin altitude and larger windows. Both are excellent modern aircraft. For premium business class: A350-1000 with the latest products is among the best in commercial aviation.
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