A380 world tour Ccontinues with major airports in Asia and US
Airbus‘ A380 will embark for a series of demonstration tours starting on 30th August. Key airports in South-East-Asia and the U.S. will be visited. The Asia-A380-tour will be conducted with flight-test-aircraft MSN (Manufacturer`s Serial Number) 007, powered by four Rolls Royce Trend 900 engines. The world’s largest and most innovative passenger jet flying today is equipped with a full passenger cabin, which can comfortably carry 520 pssengers in an extra quiet and relaxing three-class cabin-environment.
The International Airports to be visited are:
- Thailand Bangkok / Chiang Mai: 31st August – 2nd September
- Vietnam Hanoi: 2nd – 3rd September
- China Hongkong (Asian Aerospace): 3rd – 5th September
- Korea Seoul: 5th – 7th September
The US-tour will take the A380 flight-test-aircraft MSN009, powered by four Engine Alliance GP7200 engines, to the United States. The visits are part of the ongoing route proving process for this aircraft/engine-combination. The aircraft, which has no passenger-cabin, is on static display at the following airports:
- Connecticut Bradley International Airport (BDL): 2nd – 3rd October
- Kentucky Cincinnati/N. Kentucky Airport (CVG): 3rd – 4th October
- California San Francisco International Airport (SFO): 4th – 5th October
Both demonstration tours are part of the extensive campaign to prepare the A380 for a smooth entry into service. Operating under typical airline conditions, both aircraft will undergo airport compatibility checks, ground handling and maintenance procedures to confirm its readiness to enter service. The A380 has already visited more than 45 airports and by 2011, more than 70 airports will be ready for A380 operations.
Total orders and commitments for the A380 are 173 by 14 customers. The first customer A380 will be delivered to Singapore Airlines in October. Subsequent aircraft, for delivery to Singapore Airlines, Emirates Airlines and Qantas, are also well on track.
Vicky Karantzavelou
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Friday, August 17, 2007