Whilst the A330-900neo continues its flight tests, the A330-800neo (the range optimised version) has entered the final assembly.
The central fuselage and wings on the final assembly line on station 40- Image, Airbus
The central fuselage and wings on the final assembly line on station 40 – Image, Airbus
The first A330-800neo – MSN1888 is starting to come together as you can see, with one of the most recognisable components being fitted – the Vertical Tail Plane
Airbus A330-800neo tail plane being fitted to the first aircraft – Image, Airbus.
Airbus state the A330-800neo will be able to handle routes up to 7,500 nautical miles, with 242 -tonne Maximum Take-Off Weight. A version which will handle a 251 tonne MTOW weight has been launched – giving a maximum range of 8,150nm.
8,150nm puts this plane into ultra-long haul operations territory, and could open up some interesting new routes for airlines operating point-to-point networks.
The A330-800 and A330-900 share a 99% commonality, having the same airframe, engines – and allows for crew commonality training.
The plane will be powered by two Rolls Royce Trent 7000 engines. Externally, the plane will feature the curved sharklets (that initially debuted on the A350 and A330-900neo), whilst inside the plane will feature the Airspace by Airbus cabin.
Whilst the A330-900neo holds 206 orders, the A330-800neo holds a lot fewer orders – with a grand total of six aircraft on order by Hawaiian Airlines (and even then, the airline isn’t too sure about that order).
Certainly – the long-term sustainability of the programme will be to bring other customers aboard, and convincing them the range of this aircraft could open new markets to them.
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