Vluchtcapaciteit

Vluchtcapaciteit refers to the maximum number of passengers or the maximum payload that an aircraft can carry on a flight. This capacity is determined by a combination of factors, primarily the aircraft's structural limitations, its maximum takeoff weight (MTOW), and the volume of its cargo hold and passenger cabin. Airlines consider vluchtcapaciteit when planning routes, determining ticket prices, and optimizing their operations for profitability and efficiency.

The passenger capacity is often stated as a range, reflecting different cabin configurations offered by airlines. For example, a Boeing 737 might have a typical seating capacity between 130 and 189 passengers depending on the airline's choice of first-class, business-class, and economy-class seating. Similarly, cargo capacity is measured in terms of volume (cubic meters) or weight (kilograms or tons) and is crucial for freight operations.

Factors influencing actual vluchtcapaciteit on a given flight include fuel load, weather conditions, and airport performance. Longer flights require more fuel, which reduces the available weight for passengers and cargo. High temperatures or high altitudes can also decrease engine performance, limiting the maximum takeoff weight and thus the operational capacity. Airlines must carefully balance these considerations to ensure safe and profitable operations. Understanding vluchtcapaciteit is fundamental to the economics of air transport.