Do you choose your flight mainly based on rates and dates? You might want to consider spacious comfort, types of service and other amenities that are available with no difference in cost.

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QUESTION: What are the types of commercial airplanes the public can choose from?

The public can choose from several types of commercial airplanes when booking a flight, depending on the airline, route, budget, and travel experience they want. These range from small regional aircraft to massive double-deck international jets.

A. Types of commercial passenger airplanes

1. Turboprop aircraft

Small aircraft · Short routes

Examples: ATR 72 and De Havilland Canada Dash 8.

• Usually carry 30–80 passengers.
• Common on short regional routes and flights to smaller airports.
• Generally slower and often noisier than jet aircraft.

2. Regional jets

Small jets · Short to medium routes

Examples: Embraer E175 and CRJ900.

• Typically seat around 50–100 passengers.
• Connect smaller cities with major airline hubs.
• Usually have a 2–2 seating layout, with no middle seats.

3. Narrow-body jets (single aisle)

Short to medium-haul · Most common choice

Examples: Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 family.

• Commonly carry around 120–230 passengers, depending on the model.
• Used for domestic flights and many international routes.
• Offer economy, premium economy on some airlines, and sometimes business class.

4. Long-range narrow-body jets

Longer routes · Single aisle

Examples: Airbus A321LR and Airbus A321XLR.

• Can fly routes that previously required larger wide-body aircraft.
• Often used on thinner transatlantic and other long-distance routes.
• Typically offer fewer onboard amenities than premium long-haul wide-body aircraft, although configurations vary.

5. Wide-body jets (twin aisle)

Long-haul · More spacious cabins

Examples: Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Airbus A350, and Boeing 777.

• Often carry 200–400 or more passengers.
• Common on intercontinental and long-haul flights.
• May offer lie-flat business-class seats, premium economy, larger overhead bins, and more cabin space.

6. Very large, double-deck jets

High-capacity · Major international routes

Examples: Airbus A380 and Boeing 747.

• Designed to carry hundreds of passengers.
• The A380 has two full-length passenger decks.
• May offer premium lounges or onboard bars on certain airlines, particularly in premium cabins.
• Fewer airlines operate these aircraft today, and the Boeing 747 is increasingly rare in passenger service.

B. Types of flights and travel experiences you can choose

The airplane model is only one part of your choice. You can also select the type of service and cabin you fly in.

Economy class

The most affordable standard option, with basic seating and services that vary by airline and fare.

Premium economy

Wider seats or more legroom, usually with additional service benefits. Available mainly on selected aircraft and routes.

Business class

On many long-haul flights, features lie-flat beds, upgraded meals, lounge access, and priority services.

First class

A high-end option with exceptional privacy, personal space, and premium service. Offered by only some airlines and on selected aircraft.

C. Can the public choose the actual airplane?

Yes, to a degree. When booking, you can often choose an airline and flight that operates a particular aircraft model. However, airlines can change aircraft before departure.

• For comfort: Look for aircraft such as the Boeing 787 or Airbus A350, and compare the actual seat configuration.
• For a short domestic trip: Boeing 737 and Airbus A320-family aircraft are common options.
• For a premium long-haul experience: Compare the business-class cabins on the Boeing 777, 787, Airbus A350, and A380.
• For aviation enthusiasts: Search for specific aircraft models when choosing flights, and confirm the aircraft listed for your departure.