+ B747 is easier on engines - its not as underpowered ( will trade fuel economy for extended engine life anyday )
+ B747 is a faster bird - easier on schedules & time make ups when required
+ B747 more cargo volume & gross weight
+ A340 Cheap - AIRBUS OR Boeing ( leasing - aircraft trading ) will give you one for a song
+ A340 - Quieter ( they use double insulation blankets )
+ A340 FBW
- A340 - less comfortable / less preferred by business passengers - will not take the new full flat sleeper 1st & business class seats ( except for the first row in business class )
-A340 - crew rest in the cargo hold ( cold, fumes, noise, not certified for takeoff & landing )
-A340 - Poor air conditioning - cattle class always cold - note Galleys in AIRBUS aircrafts always use heated floors..
-A340 - Very complex landing gear - heavy, less reliable
-A340 - 100,200,300 - poor economics due to poor aerodynamic design