Which are the best-selling planes in the world?

Since the beginning of commercial aviation, certain aircraft have become true icons. Whether used by airlines, armed forces, or even private individuals, these machines have left their mark on their era, sometimes with millions of flight hours. But then, what are the best-selling aircraft of all time? And more importantly, what makes them so popular? That's what we're going to find out together.

The best-selling commercial aircraft in history

1. Boeing 737 – The undisputed champion

It's hard not to start with the Boeing 737, the world's best-selling commercial aircraft. Since its launch in 1967, over 12,000 units have been sold. It is used by hundreds of airlines, from giants like Ryanair or Southwest Airlines to small regional carriers.

What makes it so strong? Its reliability, versatility, and competitive operating costs. The 737 has adapted over the decades with several generations: Classic, Next Generation, and more recently the MAX version. It's a true Swiss Army knife of aviation.

2. Airbus A320 – The European rival

Right behind it, the Airbus A320 stands out as the 737's main competitor. Introduced in the late 1980s, it has surpassed 10,000 deliveries, largely thanks to its latest version, the A320neo, which is popular for its low fuel consumption.

The A320 also made a mark with its computer-assisted flight control (the famous fly-by-wire), an innovation that changed the game in modern aviation. Easy to maintain, popular with low-cost airlines like easyJet as well as major carriers, it's a bestseller that still has a lot to offer.

3. Boeing 747 – The giant of the skies

Even if the Boeing 747 didn't achieve the same volumes as single-aisle aircraft, it deserves its place here. With over 1,500 units produced, it was the first wide-body aircraft to democratize long-haul flight. Its instantly recognizable silhouette, with its hump on the nose, made it a true legend.

For decades, it was the preferred aircraft for major airlines on intercontinental flights. Today, it is gradually being replaced by more economical models, but its legacy remains intact.

4. McDonnell Douglas MD-80 – A success of the 80s

Less known to the general public, the MD-80 was nevertheless a pillar of air transport, especially in the United States. With over 1,200 units produced, it was popular for its simplicity, robustness, and low acquisition cost. It had its heyday in the 1980s and 1990s before being gradually withdrawn from service.

5. Boeing 777 – The king of modern long-haul aircraft

The Boeing 777 is a long-haul aircraft that combines capacity, range, and efficiency. It has won over airlines worldwide, especially for transatlantic and transpacific routes. Over 1,700 units have been delivered, and this number continues to climb with the arrival of the 777X, its most recent version.

The most produced military and private aircraft

Cessna 172 – The overall champion… in private aviation

If we leave the world of commercial airlines, it's the Cessna 172 that takes first place in the overall ranking. With over 45,000 units produced since 1956, this light aircraft is the most built in history.

Why such success? Its reliability, ease of piloting, and low cost make it the preferred aircraft for pilot training, all over the world. If you've ever taken flying lessons, chances are it was on board a Cessna 172.

Lockheed C-130 Hercules – The indefatigable military transport

On the military side, the C-130 Hercules from Lockheed is a true legend. Designed in the 1950s, it is still in production today, with over 2,500 units built. It is used by some sixty countries for transport, rescue, in-flight refueling, and electronic warfare missions.

Its longevity and adaptability make it one of the most durable military aircraft ever designed.

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Why are these aircraft so successful?

Whether civilian or military, all these aircraft share several common characteristics:

• A simple and reliable design, which facilitates maintenance

• Great versatility: the same aircraft can be used for different types of missions

• Controlled costs, both for purchase and operation

• A strong support network: spare parts, trained personnel, abundant documentation

Success is not just about flight performance, but also about everything that revolves around the aircraft.

In summary

The Boeing 737 dominates the ranking of best-selling airliners, closely followed by the Airbus A320. In light aviation, the Cessna 172 remains unrivalled, and on the military side, the C-130 Hercules continues to fly despite its 70-year career. These aircraft all have one thing in common: they have been able to adapt, evolve, and meet very specific needs over time.

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FAQ: We answer all your questions

What is the best-selling commercial aircraft in the world?

The Boeing 737, with over 12,000 units delivered.

How many A320s have been produced?

More than 10,000, including all versions (ceo and neo).

What is the most built aircraft across all categories?

The Cessna 172, with over 45,000 units produced.

What is the most produced military aircraft?

The Lockheed C-130 Hercules, still in production since the 1950s.