The A340, once a prominent four-engine Airbus aircraft, is now facing a grim future as it nears extinction in the aviation industry. Introduced 30 years ago with high hopes from Airbus to replace aging models like the Boeing 747 and DC-10, the A340 failed to capture commercial success compared to its successor, the A350.
Only 380 units of the A340 have been built since its introduction, with the last one manufactured in 2012. In contrast, Airbus has produced 565 A350 units since 2015. The A340’s four-engine design, once considered a feature for unbeatable range, has become a liability as newer twin-engine aircraft offer similar performance with lower operating costs.
Currently, there are only 64 A340 units in service with 17 airlines globally, signaling a significant decline from pre-pandemic levels. Many major airlines have abandoned the A340, and the A340-500 variant, once the world‘s longest-range commercial airliner, is no longer in operation.
The rise of newer twin-engine aircraft like the Boeing 777 and A350, with improved safety ratings and fuel efficiency, has led to the decline of the A340’s popularity. As a result, only a few A340-500s remain in service, with some repurposed for government and VIP use.
Despite its impending demise, the A340 still holds a special place among aviation enthusiasts for its unique design and presence. As its numbers dwindle, the A340 is becoming a rare sight in the skies, cherished by plane spotters for its beauty and legacy in commercial aviation.