In good news today, Airbus has formally gained type certification from EASA for its Airbus A350XWB aircraft.
Airbus A350s lining up for a formation flight – Image Airbus, via Twitter.
Airbus A350s in formation flight
And of course – there is some lovely air-to air video in formation flight
This certification – indicating that the Airbus A350 has been manufactured to an approved design and meets airworthiness requirements – marks the last major hurdle in the A350 project before it can begin delivering aircraft to customers.
Five aircraft formed the cadre of test vehicles, which flew over 2,600 hours as part of the certification programme.
EASA certification has been granted, with US FAA approval pending.
The first aircraft that have passed this certification phase are based on the A350-900 model.
And as for the first carrier to take delivery of the aircraft? It’s none other than Qatar Airways (who have finally taken delivery of their first A380 after cabin issues). Subject to everything going to plan, the first A350 will be delivered during the 4th Quarter of 2014.
Qatar Airways will take delivery of the first production aircraft – and have 43 A350-900 and 37 A350-1000s on order.
Airbus will be hoping for a smooth introduction into service – and needs it with 547 A350-900 and 169 A350-1000 aircraft on the order books.
But congratulations to Airbus for getting this far with the Airbus A350 project – this is one aircraft I hope to be flying aboard in the future.
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