Is the A330 or A340 aircraft better?

Question

I am flying Air France this summer from Philadalphia to Paris on the A340. In December 2007, I flew the same route on the A330 and found out it was a great flight. I want to know which aircraft is better.

Answer 1

The A330 and A340 are almost identical aircraft except for the number of engines (two on the A330, four on the A340) and the fuel capacity. In fact, they're so close that some airlines use the same pilots to fly both aircraft types - something that is normally not practical.  

The Airbus website compares the two as follows:

"The A330/A340 Family concept is unique: one basic airframe is available in six different configurations, powered by two or four engines."

Contrary to what some other answers say, the A340 is not wider. All models of the A330 and A340 have the exact same fuselage diameter - 18 feet, 6 inches. The main physical difference between the different models is in the fuselage length, not the width.

Since the widths are identical, any difference in comfort will have more to do with how the airline has configured the aircraft and the comfort of the seats that they have installed - not whether it is an A330 or A340.

Answer 2

I have flown both kinds. I actually like the A340 better because it is easier to handle. It's also nice and comfortable;)

Answer 3

I like the noise level better in the 330 (because there are only 2 engines as opposed to 4) but the cabin is nicer in the 340 because it's a bit less cramped.

Answer 4

The A340 is the best - newerer and betterer. Thanks.

Answer 5

The A340's have a longer flight range. 340's are also more wider and comfortable.