What is an example of a Very Large Aircraft (VLA)?

The Airbus A380 is classified as a Very Large Aircraft (VLA) due to its significant passenger capacity and overall dimensions. It is the largest passenger airliner in the world, designed to transport a high volume of passengers over long distances, typically accommodating between 555 and 850 passengers depending on the configuration. The VLA designation is based on an aircraft's maximum takeoff weight and its passenger capability, with the A380 exceeding these thresholds significantly.

In contrast, the other aircraft listed do not meet the criteria for classification as Very Large Aircraft. The Boeing 737, known for its narrower fuselage and smaller passenger capacity, is categorized as a single-aisle jet. The Cessna 172 and the Embraer Phenom 100 are both light aircraft, designed mainly for general aviation and business travel, and fall into the smaller aircraft categories. Therefore, they do not qualify as VLAs, which further highlights the A380's unique size and capacity in the aviation industry.