Which Plane Has Two Floors? The Double-Decker Aircraft Explained

Airplanes have come a long way in terms of comfort, design, and innovation. While most commercial aircraft have a single cabin level, a few remarkable models take flight to the next level—literally. Planes with two floors offer passengers more room, amenities, and the unique experience of flying in a double-decker airplane.

So, which planes have two floors? Let’s dive into the world of double-decker aircraft, with a focus on the most iconic Airbus A380 and other notable two-floor planes.

1. Airbus A380 – The King of Two-Floor Aircraft

The Airbus A380 is by far the most well-known two-floor plane in the world. This superjumbo aircraft, which can carry up to 850 passengers, is a true marvel of engineering and design.

Number of Floors: The Airbus A380 has two full-length passenger decks, making it the first and only commercial aircraft to feature a double-decker cabin across the entire length of the plane.

Seating Capacity: Depending on the airline’s configuration, the A380 can carry up to 850 passengers in an all-economy class layout, or around 555 passengers in a three-class configuration (First, Business, and Economy).

Passenger Comfort: The upper deck is usually reserved for business or first-class passengers, offering larger seats, more legroom, and enhanced amenities. The lower deck houses economy class passengers, but it’s just as spacious and comfortable.

Design and Features: The A380 is equipped with wide aisles, larger windows, and increased overhead bin space compared to other aircraft. The double-decker design allows for a more comfortable and less crowded flying experience.

Fun Fact: The Airbus A380 is so large that it requires special airport gates and runways, and its wingspan is nearly 80 meters (263 feet). It’s the largest commercial airliner currently in operation.

2. Boeing 747 – The Iconic Jumbo Jet with an Upper Deck

While the Airbus A380 takes the crown for the largest double-decker aircraft, the Boeing 747 has long been the queen of the skies. This classic jumbo jet features a partial second deck.

Number of Floors: The Boeing 747 has a two-story design, but only the forward section of the aircraft is a full second deck. The rear section of the plane remains a single-floor layout.

Seating Capacity: Depending on the variant, the 747 can carry anywhere from 300 to 600 passengers. The upper deck is typically reserved for business and first-class seats, while the main deck houses economy passengers.

Passenger Comfort: The upper deck of the Boeing 747 is often considered more private, with larger seats and a quieter cabin. Passengers in economy are seated in the main deck, but the aircraft’s distinctive hump offers a more spacious and comfortable experience compared to other single-deck planes.

Iconic Design: The 747's hump is the most recognizable feature of the aircraft. While it’s not as fully double-decker as the A380, its two-story design has made it an iconic choice for airlines over the years.

Fun Fact: The Boeing 747 was the first commercial aircraft to feature a two-story design and has been in service for over 50 years.

3. Airbus A340 – A Partial Double-Deck Design

The Airbus A340 is a wide-body airliner that, while not fully a double-decker, has a partial second deck.

Number of Floors: The Airbus A340 features a one-and-a-half-story layout, with the second deck located only at the front of the aircraft. The rear section remains a single-level cabin.

Seating Capacity: The A340 can accommodate between 250 and 380 passengers depending on the airline’s configuration. The second deck is reserved for business class and first-class passengers.

Passenger Comfort: The upper deck of the A340, while not as expansive as the A380, still offers larger seats and extra legroom. The aircraft is typically used for long-haul flights.

Fun Fact: The A340 is popular with airlines that operate on long-distance routes because of its range and efficiency, despite its partial second deck.

4. Lockheed Martin C-5M Super Galaxy – The Military Double-Decker

While commercial aircraft are the most well-known for having two floors, military cargo planes also use a two-story design. One notable example is the Lockheed Martin C-5M Super Galaxy, a massive cargo plane used by the U.S. Air Force.

Number of Floors: The C-5M Super Galaxy features a two-story design that allows for large cargo loads to be transported at once.

Cargo Capability: The upper deck of the aircraft is used for crew and command, while the lower deck is primarily used for heavy cargo. The unique design allows the plane to carry large equipment such as tanks, helicopters, and military vehicles.

Fun Fact: The C-5M can carry up to 280,000 pounds of cargo, making it one of the largest military transport aircraft in the world.

Conclusion: The Future of Two-Floor Planes

As air travel continues to evolve, two-floor planes like the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747 remain a symbol of luxury and comfort in the skies. The Airbus A380 continues to be the largest commercial aircraft in operation, offering passengers an unparalleled flying experience with two full-length passenger decks. While commercial planes with two floors are rare, they are undoubtedly a significant part of aviation history and the future of air travel.

So, whether you’re booking a flight on the Airbus A380, riding in the upper deck of a Boeing 747, or marveling at military giants like the C-5M, it’s clear that two-floor planes offer a unique flying experience you won’t forget.