The Bottom Line: The Airbus A350-900 and Boeing 787-9 are very similar aircraft, suited for similar missions. As one would expect, the slightly larger A350-900 has a seat-mile cost advantage, while the 787-9 has an advantage in cost per block hour.
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Specifications. On the surface, these are two very similar airplanes, with very similar specifications. While the Airbus has slightly more passenger capacity, thanks to its slightly superior length, the Boeing has a more generous belly for cargo, and a greater range overall.
The Dreamliner is slightly longer while the A350 is slightly wider, although both jets have identical maximum passenger capacities. In terms of performance, the A350 is ultimately a heavier aircraft with more fuel capacity and more powerful engines.
Measuring over 10 meters longer than the A330-300 and the 777-200, the 777-300 seats a significantly higher number of passengers. Meanwhile, the smaller A330-200 is more comparable in passenger capacity with the Boeing 767-400.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner has revolutionized flying for both passengers and pilots. Taking a leap into the future from its predecessors, the designers incorporated a number of new features that make the Dreamliner one of the most fuel efficient and comfortable aircraft in the skies.
The 787 can easily and more efficiently operate many of the routes the 777 was designed for. As such, many airlines have either upgraded to the 787 or are awaiting the arrival of the next-generation 777X.
The Airbus A350 was developed in response to Boeing's successful 787 Dreamliner, aiming to offer equal or better range and efficiency. The aircraft features a wider cabin compared to the 787, allowing for high-density configurations if desired, and boasts quieter cabins and optimized air quality.
The Boeing 777-300ER (Extended Range) extends the capabilities of the 777 family by bringing its legendary reliability and passenger preference to new levels of efficiency and longer-range markets. The airplane's performance, economics, range capability and payload capacity help operators maximize profits.
The A350 was designed to be a direct competitor to the Boeing 787-9 and 777-200ER. The original A350 design was publicly criticised by two of Airbus's largest customers, International Lease Finance Corporation (ILFC) and GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS).
The 787 was the first major commercial aircraft to use carbon fiber composite components in the fuselage and wing construction. These make the aircraft lighter but still offer high strength. New, more efficient engines. The 787 is designed to take either the General Electric GEnx or the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engine.
The flagship widebodies have been very successful with customers. This century has been dominated by two flagship widebodies, the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350. Built with new components, carrying the most efficient engines, and with exceptional range, they represent the best of innovation from both planemakers.
This advanced fly-by-wire system also is the key to Smoother Ride Technology – unique to the 787 family -- which senses turbulence and adjusts control surfaces automatically to dampen its effects before it reaches the passengers.
Seat FeaturesSliding seat cushions and slim, ergonomic seat designs give you ample space. Enjoy a more comfortable trip on the 46-cm wide seat with an 84-cm space between rows and a backrest that reclines to 118 degrees.