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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Defining the rank of largest airlines in the world can be possible with several key factors including fleet size, the number of aircraft in operation, total revenue generated, and passenger volume. However, for many aviation enthusiasts, the real fascination lies in the capacity of these massive fleets. If you're one of those curious minds eager to explore the world of giant aviation fleets, this article has all the information you’ve been looking for.
10 Largest Airlines in the World by Capacity
Simple Flying and Flight Radar24 crowned several U.S. aviation services among the largest airlines in the world. Other giant fleets also include:
1. United Airlines - 253,498 seats
World's largest airline tops list, United Airlines can accommodate a staggering capacity of 253,498 individuals. The aviation service headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, puts 992 aircraft within its existing fleet. Encompassing rumbling engines of Boeing, Airbus, Embraer, and Mitsubishi aircraft, United Airlines is renowned for its extensive routes across domestic and international flight destinations.
2. Delta Airlines - 229,694 seats
The founding member of the SkyTeam alliance, one of the world’s most prominent aircraft services unions, Delta is a renowned addition to America's outstanding air transport. Having been in operation since June 1929, Delta is committed to providing seamless flying services through its jaw-dropping number of fleets recorded at 1,009. From its homebase in Atlanta, Georgia, Delta connects passengers to 325 destinations across 52 countries.
3. American Airlines - 212,731 seats
Dating back to 1926, there is no denying that American Airlines is a remarkable figure among global air services. Its booming reputation as one of the largest airlines is cemented by its ability to oversee a total number of 997 fleets. Thanks to its AAdvantage loyalty program, this aviation service can promote customer satisfaction across domestic and international destinations.
4. Southwest Airlines - 205,816 seats
Southwest Airlines has a success story to tell, demonstrating its ability to carry out the operation of big aviation services with affordable prices. While there is a clear limitation towards flight distances, confining only domestic flights and a few of the Caribbean’s holiday destinations, Southwest Airlines is not afraid to present a reliable aircraft service. Since it was founded in March 1967, Southwest Airlines has long been a darling to passengers due to its reputation as a low-cost carrier.
5. Ryanair - 155,053 seats
Known for its no-frills approach, this low-cost Irish airline is one of the largest in the world in terms of capacity and passengers carried. There are currently 311 aircraft and another 594 wet-leased under the company’s current fleet, though Ryanair only consists of narrow-body ones. Serving flights in and around Europe, the aviation service remains a steadfast European airline worth noting.
6. China Southern Airlines - 138,362 seats
A pioneer in the Asian aviation industry, China Southern Airlines offers a capacity of staggering 138,362 seats across its fairly young fleet. Since it was founded in 1988, it has operated inbound and outbound flights around its main hubs at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and Daxing International Airport. Today, it’s dubbed as one of the three major airlines in mainland China, along with Air China and China Eastern Airlines.
7. Air China - 130,083 seats
Air China is another major airline from mainland China that boasts extensive international flight routes. With an average of 9.9 years, their 525 aircraft include Boeing, Comac, and Airbus airframes. Boarding with Air China comes with a golden opportunity of becoming part of the Star Alliance elite members.
8. IndiGo - 125,192 seats
IndiGo may have the shortest history of any of the other contenders, being in business since 2006. However, this company is currently the largest airline in India, with a total fleet of around 429 aircraft and 940 aircraft on order. Under a staggering 63.3% domestic market share, IndiGO operates 2,000 daily flights to 125 destinations, with Mumbai (BOM) to Istanbul (IST) being their longest.
9. Turkish Airlines - 97,442 seats
Turkey's national flag carrier, Turkish Airlines, was founded in 1933 and claims Istanbul as its homebase. With more than 340 destinations over 130 countries, Turkish Airlines is a solid figure of the world's largest international networks. Thanks to its fleet of 451, consisting of Airbus and Boeing, the aviation company consistently stands at the forefront of providing efficient air transportation.
10. Lufthansa - 91,874 seats
As one of the airlines operating the largest passenger aircraft, the A380, it comes no surprise that Lufthansa reserves a spot on the list. The founding member of Star Alliance began operations in 1953 and currently has a fleet of 306 aircraft. Offering efficient flight routes to more than 300 destinations worldwide, Lufthansa becomes one of Europe's largest airlines by revenue.
As seen from the list, the largest airlines in the world by capacity are dominated by American and international carriers, each with unique strengths and specialties. With the ever-increasing competition and technological advancements, the rankings may shift in the coming years. But if you are curious about updated news from the aviation industry, stay informed about the best airlines in the world here.
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