- Mr Plane Guy
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
Qatar Airbus A380 Why It Stands Out in a World of Dreamliners and A350s
By Mr Plane Guy
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In an era of ultra-efficient, sleek jets like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A350, you might think the double-decker Qatar Airbus A380 is a relic of the past. But despite whispers of its retirement, this superjumbo continues to turn heads and for good reason.
Having already flown and reviewed the excellent Qatar Airways 787 business class, I couldn’t help but dive into what makes the Qatar A380 so unique in today’s aviation landscape and why it remains firmly on my bucket list.
The Superjumbo That Won’t Quit
The Qatar Airways A380 entered service in 2014 as the airline’s flagship aircraft. And even though Qatar’s newer 787and A350 jets have stolen some of the spotlight with their advanced technology and fuel efficiency, the A380 still flies some of the airline’s most popular long-haul routes.
Routes like Doha–London and Doha–Sydney are still served by the Qatar A380, offering passengers the kind of space and glamour you just don’t get on smaller jets.
Size Matters
At its heart, the A380 is about scale. The sheer size of the Qatar Airbus A380 means a wider, quieter cabin, a dedicated upper deck for premium passengers, and a much more spacious feel compared to the 787 or A350.
Even in business class, this makes a difference. Flyers report that the Qatar A380 business class feels less cramped than the newer aircraft, with more storage and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Blog Post: Qatar Airways Business Class Review
The Lounge You Can’t Miss
The crown jewel of the Qatar A380 business class experience? The onboard lounge.
Located at the rear of the upper deck, it’s a chic space where business and first-class passengers can socialise, sip Champagne, or just stretch their legs. Neither the 787 nor the A350 offer this feature and it’s one of the reasons why the A380 stands out.
For many, the lounge alone makes the Qatar A380 a memorable way to travel.
Blog Post: Qatar Airways Economy Class Review
Dreamliner vs. Superjumbo
Having flown Qatar’s 787 (check out my full Qatar 787 business class review), I can say it’s a fantastic experience: private, modern, and quiet. But it feels like a different type of product designed to be efficient and practical, rather than grand.
The Qatar A380 business class, on the other hand, seems more about theatre and presence. It’s less about efficiency and more about creating a unique experience.
So which is better? Honestly, it depends what you value: if you’re chasing a bucket-list moment, go with the Qatar Airbus A380. If you just want a reliable, modern ride, the Qatar 787 delivers every time.
Why It’s Worth Booking Now
It’s no secret Qatar Airways has been phasing out the A380. While they’re still flying it on key routes, its days are clearly numbered. That alone makes it worth seeking out, because flying the Qatar Airways A380 business class now could be your last chance to experience this iconic aircraft in full service.
Final Boarding Call
The aviation world might be moving on, but the Qatar Airbus A380 still offers something no other aircraft can: a sense of scale, occasion, and glamour.
It may not be the most modern jet in the fleet, but it’s certainly one of the most memorable. Whether it’s the wider cabin, the upper-deck layout, or that elegant onboard lounge, the Qatar A380 business class remains a standout in a world of Dreamliners and A350s.
I’m hoping to experience it firsthand soon, and if you’re curious about how Qatar’s newer jets compare, don’t miss my full Qatar Airways 787 business class review for more insight.
Have you flown the Qatar A380? Let me know what you thought, I’d love to hear your take!
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Related Links
24 Hours in Doha: A Guide to Making the Most of Your Stopover
Is the Plaza Premium Lounge at Heathrow T4 Worth the Hype? Find out HERE
Why W Hotel Doha Should be Your Next Stylish Stay in Qatar: Hotel Review
24 Hours in Doha: A Guide to Making the Most of Your Stopover
How I Travelled Business Class on Qatar Airways for Less Than £250
Qatar Airways Economy Class Review: London to Zanzibar via Doha
How I Went from Zero Avios to a Qatar Airways Business Class Upgrade in Just 3 Months
Hello, I’m Paul a professional jet-setter and all-around plane travel pro. After 15 years working in and around planes, I became a flight delay expert at a London Airport and mastered plane travel hacks, a PLANE flight expert with BIG travel plans but small carry-on.
Now, I share PLANE travel news, tips, reviews, and deals with honesty, humour, and zero baggage! Thanks for reading
Qatar Airbus A380 Why It Stands Out in a World of Dreamliners and A350s.
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