Buzz
Boeing and Airbus, the world's two largest aircraft manufacturers, produce planes that are integral to the aviation industry worldwide. However, distinguishing between them can be challenging when encountering an airplane at the airport. In this guide, you'll discover simple methods to distinguish between the two.
Steps to Follow
Inspecting the Exterior
Observe the cockpit windows. The shape of the cockpit windows is a key indicator of whether the aircraft is a Boeing or an Airbus. Pay attention to the angle of the last window pane relative to the body of the aircraft.
- Check if the joining point of the last two window panes has a sharp angle. If the angle is wide and less square, it's likely a Boeing.
- Look for a sharp angle on the last window pane. If it forms a right angle or close to it with the aircraft body, it's probably an Airbus.
Examine the aircraft's nose. The nose, or front tip, provides valuable clues to distinguish between a Boeing and an Airbus.
- Look for a sharp, angular nose. Boeing planes typically have sharper, more pointed noses compared to Airbus aircraft. Therefore, if the nose is sharp, it's likely a Boeing.
- Check for a rounded nose resembling a semi-circle. If the nose is round, it's probably an Airbus.
Inspect the engines. The engines of Boeing and Airbus planes differ significantly in size and shape, serving as a distinct identifier.
- Look for engines with a flat bottom. Boeing engines often have a flat underside and a more circular top.
- Observe engines that are nearly circular in shape. Airbus engines tend to be almost perfectly circular.
Exception: Some Boeing models, such as the 777, 767, 747, and 787, feature round engines similar to those of Airbus planes. However, this engine type is more common in the Boeing 737 and not other Boeing aircraft.
Consider the engine placement. Boeing and Airbus planes have distinct engine configurations.
- Look for engines mounted forward on the wings. Boeing engines are positioned at the front of the wing, rather than in the middle or underneath.
- Identify engines mounted under the wings. Airbus engines are fully positioned beneath the wings, making them more visible from rear seats.
Observe the tail section of the aircraft. The shape of the tail, or fin, provides further clues to differentiate between Boeing and Airbus planes.
- Look for a sloped tail connecting to the fuselage. If the tail extends with a slope, forming a less distinct connection with the fuselage, it's likely a Boeing.
- Check for a sharply connected tail. An Airbus typically has a tail that meets the fuselage without any extended slope.
Observe the rear gear retraction of the aircraft to distinguish the Boeing 737. This assessment is challenging as it's only observable during takeoff.
- Check if the rear gears are exposed without a compartment. The Boeing 737 (specifically the 737) retracts its rear gears into the plane without concealing them.
- Verify if the rear gears retract into a compartment. For Airbus aircraft and most other Boeing models (excluding the 737), the gears retract into the plane and are covered afterward, making them invisible.
Exploring Other Features
Inspect the cockpit area, if feasible. While it may not always be permissible, occasionally, one can glimpse into the cockpit.
- Look for a control column, resembling a 'U' shaped steering wheel, situated at the front-center of both cockpit seats.
- Identify the presence of a control column. Airbus aircraft typically lack a control column. Instead, check for a sidestick resembling a joystick on the right side of the right seat (or left side of the left seat).
Examine the design of emergency exits. Boeing and Airbus airplanes feature distinct emergency exit designs.
- Check for a large spinning latch on Boeing's emergency exits.
- Check for a vertical push handle on Airbus's emergency exits.
Assess the interior space of the cockpit, if possible. Differences in size exist between Boeing and Airbus cockpits.
- Observe the gap between the Captain's and First Officer's seats. Boeing cockpits generally have less space between the seats and overall.
- Observe the gap between the captain's and first officer's seats. Airbus cockpits offer more spacious seating arrangements compared to Boeing.
Insights
- Refer to the safety instructions card in your seat pocket. It typically specifies the aircraft model.
- Seek assistance from a crew member if you have inquiries.
