Why is Airbus More Expensive Than Boeing | Top 4 Reasons

Did you just end the foreign trip with Airbus? And worried about the expenses…because you don’t know the logic of why is Airbus more expensive than Boeing? Let’s explore the facts and figures.

People spend the savings of the whole year on trips. However,  the price difference between the two top-notch companies confuses them. First, Airbus is the result of European teamwork (France, UK, and Germany). Second, Boeing is the most popular US aircraft company. 

In this article, we’ll explore the factors that make Airbus more expensive. We’ll look at the differences between manufacturing, design philosophy, comfort, and much more. 

Stay tuned. So, let’s get started.

Why is Airbus more expensive than Boeing? Rental rate

The major difference is the regional. Both aircraft are the product of different regions. Moreover, the statistics show a clear difference in pricing.

According to recent reports about Airbus,

“The rental rate per hour for Airbus A380 is $37,150. It also includes the operating cost per hour ($26,000 and $29,000).”

Whereas as per the statistics reports about Boeing,

“The rental rate per hour for Boeing 787 is $25,000. In addition, it includes the operation cost per hour flight ($5,757).

These are the costs for airlines or companies. These companies lease or operate the planes. And they also cover things like fuel, maintenance, and crew.

Now, let’s resolve the question: Why is Airbus more expensive than Boeing?

Airbus vs. Boeing: A Global Rivalry

If you look at the history, both companies have an interesting historical background. Let’s see the historical background of both aircraft. Let’s know which countries they are from.

Boeing:

• Boeing was established in 1916 in Seattle, Washington, USA.
• It is the oldest manufacturing company in the world.
• Boeing played an important role in the U.S. industry and military.

Airbus:

• European collaborat founded Airbus company in 1970. 
• It gave tough competition to Boeing.
• The company introduced the world’s largest passenger aircraft, the A380.

Over the decades, the competition between these two has increased innovation and technology.

Airbus Vs. Boeing: Price of Air Tickets

 The ultimate question of passengers is: why is Airbus more expensive than Boeing?”. The price may vary for shorter and longer flights. But overall, Airbus is more expensive.

Prices may change based on promotional offers. It’s best to check with airlines directly first.

Airbus A380 Ticket Prices (Longer Flights)

Generally, the air ticket price depends on the route. However, in the case of first-class, prices are higher than usual. This is because of luxurious cabins.

Boeing 737 Ticket Prices (Shorter Flights)

The prices of Air tickets may vary for shorter domestic routes or regional flights. The rough estimate of the air ticket price is as follows.

Comparison of Air Tickets: Airbus Vs. Boeing

Generally, for longer flights, the Airbus A380 is the first choice. Therefore, it is more expensive due to the longer flight times and premium services.

 Meanwhile, the Boeing 737 primarily flies shorter domestic or regional routes. Hence, it has lower ticket prices. Let’s look at the price comparison.

Key Differences of why is Airbus more expensive than Boeing

You must be worried after seeing the difference in the prices of air tickets. Wait, let me explain the secret behind the high prices.

Many factors are responsible for the higher rates of Airbus. For example, manufacturing costs, design choices, technology, and the materials used.

 Let’s take a closer look at why Airbus is more expensive than Boeing.

1. Innovation and Technology

One primary reason for the higher cost of Airbus aircraft is the level of technology. Airbus is known for its technology. For example, the Airbus A320 Fly-by-Wire technology.

Advanced avionics, noise reduction technologies, and fuel-efficient designs increase the cost. Therefore, this is the exact answer to “Why is Airbus more expensive than Boeing.”

• Fly-by-Wire Technology: 

The main difference between Boeing and Airbus planes is how pilots control them. Airbus introduced fly-by-wire technology. This computer-based system allows pilots to communicate with a computer, sending signals through wires.

On the other hand, Boeing uses traditional cable technology for this purpose.

Mr. Eustance, chairman of the Professional Pilots Union, said,

“Airbus technology prevents dangerous maneuvers. This creates a safety bubble for the passengers.”

Furthermore, Fly-by-Wire Technology reduces the human error. Five computers manage the flight controls. 

• ANTC (Airbus Noise Technology  Center)

The ANTC introduced new technologies to reduce Airbus noise. The experts calculated and analyzed the noise levels. Overall, the ANTC tried to make flights quieter and more environmentally friendly.

This is the second plus point of Airbus. 

2. Manufacturing Costs

Airbus is a project of European collaboration. The Airbus production plants are in France, Germany, Spain, and the UK. So, it has diverse manufacturing processes. There are logistical challenges and high prices due to sharing costs.

According to recent reports,

“$9 Million is for an annual 1095 hrs. while flying Airbus A318.”

On the other hand, Boeing is a US project. So, there is a centralized production system. So it leads to greater operational cost savings.

3. Materials and Engineering

Airbus uses high-grade materials for manufacturing. For example, they try to introduce the latest technologies. Using composite materials helps to make the plane lighter and fuel-efficient. This premium choice does justice to the question, Why is Airbus more expensive than Boeing?

On the other hand, the centralized approach of Boeing manufacturing is less costly. 

 Fuel efficiency plays a crucial role in determining overall operating costs.

• The Airbus A350-900 is generally more cost-effective. It has a larger fuel capacity and longer range. This is more cost-efficient and sustainable on long-haul flights. This makes it an attractive option for airlines.
• On the other hand, the Boeing B787-9 has better fuel efficiency. However, it has higher overall operating costs due to smaller fuel capacity.

4. Design Philosophy

Airbus aircraft have more focus on automation. They introduced cockpit design. Cockpit design increases the usability of automated systems. Here are some key benefits.

Reduced Pilot Workload: It helps in managing complex flight operations.

Enhanced Safety: Automated systems can reduce human errors.

Improved Fuel Efficiency: It controls flight paths and engine performance.

Increased Precision: It allows more accurate control during landings and takeoffs.

Streamlined Operations: Automation enhances the overall efficiency of flight management.

Better Data Handling: It helps with decision-making and situational awareness.

Consistency in Performance: Automated systems reduce variability in flight operations.

These advancements in automation require more sophisticated software and systems, which drive up the overall cost. Boeing follows the traditional pathway. It focuses more on pilot control, which results in slightly lower costs.

Airbus- Top choice among people 

Although, Airbus is more expensive. But it has always been the top choice among people. Take into account the following answers before making a choice.

Is Airbus Cheaper Than Boeing?

No, generally, Airbus is more expensive than Boeing. The Airbus A320 is often more expensive than its competitor, the Boeing 737. Advanced technology and higher fuel efficiency make the Airbus more expensive. However, Boeing is more cost-effective for budget-conscious airlines.

Is Airbus More Comfortable Than Boeing?

The level of comfort during flight is important for the passenger. Many passengers believe that the Airbus A350 is the most comfortable. Because it has spacious seats. However, some prefer the A380 for a good experience. It has quieter environment and good air quality. 

In comparison, Boeing models like the 787 Dreamliner are also comfortable. However, Airbus aircraft are preferred for longer flights.

Overall, Airbus is more popular than Boeing.

Is Airbus Bigger Than Boeing?

Yes, there are many Airbus models that are bigger than Boeing. It has the largest commercial airplanes in the world. For example, A380. It is 71 meters in height. And it can carry 555 passengers.

While Boeing’s 747 is also large and can accommodate about 366 passengers. But the A380 can carry more passengers. This can also resolve the riddle of ‘why is Airbus more expensive than Boeing.’

Boeing vs. Airbus: Which Is Safer?

Both companies have good safety records. However, according to experts, Airbus provides a safer experience. The reason is the automated system, which reduces human error. Boeing focuses on providing pilots with more direct control. 

Furthermore, the fewer fatalities (death rate) of Airbus makes it safer.

Final Thoughts

The logic behind the question, “Why is Airbus more expensive than Boeing?” is simple. The reasons include its advanced technology, high comfort, quieter cabins, and innovative technology. While Boeing is the most effective choice among many airlines, Airbus often provides a premium experience. This justifies its higher price.

FAQS

Why Is Airbus Quieter Than Boeing?

Airbus has the latest noise reduction technology. This is known as ANTC (Airbus Noise Technology Center). It creates a quieter environment than Boeing. That’s why Airbus is a premium price.

Is Airbus More Reliable Than Boeing?

If you look at the automated system, Airbus is more reliable. Because there are fewer chances of human error, on the other hand, at Boeing, the pilot has more control. And the chances of human error are higher.

Boeing vs. Airbus: Which Is Better?

Both are good. It mostly depends on the airline’s needs. If the airline wants to buy a more advanced and automated plane, Airbus is a good choice. If an airline wants the plane for shorter flights, Boeing provides the best experience. The same goes for the passenger, based on flight duration.