Airbus A340-300 

Introduction

The Airbus A340-300 is a long-range, wide-body aircraft known for its four-engine reliability, intercontinental range, and spacious cabin. As one of the original variants of the A340 family, the A340-300 served global airlines on long-haul routes for over two decades and remains in use for VIP transport, government missions, and private charters. Designed for performance and passenger comfort, this aircraft offers both capacity and range ideal for premium travel and high-volume charter operations.

Specification of Airbus A340-300

• Manufacturer: Airbus (France)

• Model: A340-300

• Crew: 2 pilots + 8–12 cabin crew

• Passenger Capacity:
  Typical: 250–280 passengers (2- or 3-class layout)
  Max: Up to 440 passengers in high-density economy

• Engines: 4 × CFM International CFM56-5C4 turbofan engines

• Length: 63.6 m (208 ft 9 in)

• Wingspan: 60.3 m (197 ft 10 in)

• Height: 16.8 m (55 ft 1 in)

• Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): Up to 275,000 kg (606,271 lbs)

• Cargo Capacity: Approx. 201 m³ (7,100 ft³) in the lower holds

Performance and Range of Airbus A340-300

The Airbus A340-300 offers impressive long-range capabilities and redundancy with four engines:

• Cruise Speed: Mach 0.82 (871 km/h or 471 knots)

• Maximum Range: 13,500 km (7,290 nautical miles)

• Service Ceiling: 41,000 ft

• Takeoff Distance: Approx. 3,100 m (10,170 ft)

• Landing Distance: Approx. 2,200 m (7,218 ft)

This makes it capable of nonstop flights such as New York to Cape Town, Paris to Bangkok, or São Paulo to Frankfurt.

Cabin Comfort and Interior of Airbus A340-300

The Airbus A340-300 offers a quiet, wide-body cabin with ample room for comfort, especially over long-haul flights:

• Cabin Width: 5.28 m (17 ft 4 in)

• Cabin Height: 2.41 m (7 ft 11 in)

• Typical Seating Layout:
  Economy: 2-4-2
  Business Class: 1-2-1 or 2-2-2 with lie-flat seating
  VIP/Private layouts: Fully customizable with bedrooms, lounges, and meeting rooms

• Lavatories: 6–8 depending on configuration

• Galleys: Forward, mid, and rear galley areas

• Cabin Features:
  LED mood lighting
  Low noise levels
  Spacious aisles and overhead bins
  Customizable seating and interior zones for group or executive travel

In executive/VIP versions (e.g., ACJ340), it can accommodate 30–60 passengers in full luxury, including private suites, conference areas, and dining rooms.

Avionics and Technology of Airbus A340-300

The Airbus A340-300 shares cockpit systems with the A330, enhancing pilot commonality:

• Flight Deck: Full glass cockpit with fly-by-wire controls

• Avionics Suite: EFIS displays, ECAM, FMS, GPS, TCAS II, ILS CAT III

• Flight Controls: Digital side-stick controls with Airbus flight envelope protection

• Autopilot: Fully integrated with autoland capability

• Cabin Tech: Satellite communication, inflight Wi-Fi (optional), advanced IFE systems

This system design ensures high reliability, pilot familiarity, and lower transition training costs.

Operational Advantages of Airbus A340-300

While no longer in mainstream airline fleets, the Airbus A340-300 still offers distinct advantages:

• Four-Engine Redundancy: Ideal for long over-water routes (no ETOPS limitations)

• Long-Haul Capability: Perfect for ultra-long-range flights with large passenger or cargo payloads

• Spacious Cabin: Easily adapted for high-density or premium configurations

• Proven Reliability: Strong safety record and established maintenance infrastructure

• High Payload Flexibility: Suited for mixed passenger and cargo missions

These advantages make it suitable for operators who value range, space, and non-stop transoceanic access.

Who Should Charter Airbus A340-300

The Airbus A340-300 is best suited for:

• Long-Haul Group Charters: Government delegations, sports teams, corporate groups

• Tour Operators: Nonstop, high-volume leisure travel to remote destinations

• Government and Military: Strategic lift, VIP or head-of-state transport

• VIP Charters (ACJ Configuration): Intercontinental private flights with full custom interiors

• Cargo/Passenger Missions: Converted or combi variants suitable for flexible load-outs

It is ideal for clients needing range, privacy, or prestige over long-distance routes.

Charter Cost Estimates for Airbus A340-300

Charter rates vary based on layout, range, and aircraft condition:

• Hourly Charter Rate:
  Standard configuration: $18,000 – $24,000 USD
  VIP/ACJ340: $30,000 – $40,000+ USD

• Typical Long-Haul Charter (10–14 hours): $180,000 – $350,000 USD

• Estimated Cost per Passenger (Full Load): $300 – $750 USD

Rates include crew, positioning, fuel, handling, and luxury services in ACJ flights.

Conclusion

The Airbus A340-300 is a long-range powerhouse that continues to serve specialized markets with distinction. Its high passenger capacity, four-engine safety, and global range make it ideal for long-haul charters and VIP transport. Whether carrying a full load of passengers across oceans or delivering a head-of-state in luxury, the A340-300 remains a symbol of reliability, endurance, and refined air travel.