Airbus A380 maiden flight 10 years ago today
The A380 performed its maiden flight 10 years ago today, the super jumbo with its wings made here in Flintshire pushed Airbus once again, to the forefront in shaping future air travel.
Now 10 years on the A380 services nearly 100 routes to some 45 destinations, linking major airports, accommodating growing traffic on intense regional segments, connecting hubs to key city destinations and serving busy domestic flights.
The A380 performed its maiden flight on April 27, 2005, just over three months after rolling out of the manufacturer’s plant at Toulouse Blagnac International Airport on January 18, 2005.
The “Superjumbo”, registered F-WWOW and powered by Rolls Royce Trent 900 engines, took-off at 10:29 local time (8:29 GMT) and landed thee hours and 54 minutes later at 14:23 local time (12:23 GMT).
The pilots-in-command were Claude Lelaie, Senior Vice President Flight Division, and Jacques Rosay, Chief Test Pilot and Vice President.The A380’s first ever flight.
Wherever it flies, the A380 continues to be an impressive sight as the jetliner’s route network expands to a growing number of destinations around the globe.
Ten years after the first take-off on 27 April 2005, Airbus’ A380 has clearly established itself as the world’s favourite Very Large Aircraft (VLA) – with the 317 orders booked from 18 customers, representing a 90 per cent share of this market.
The A380’s track record is as remarkable as the jetliner’s distinctive profile, transporting nearly three million passengers every month on some 200 flights performed in daily service with its 13 current operators.
Emirates is the fleet leader, having received its 60th A380 this month – with deliveries pending for 80 more. The other operators flying A380s today are Air France, Asiana Airlines, British Airways, China Southern Airlines, Etihad, Korean Air, Lufthansa, Malaysia Airlines, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines and Thai Airways International (THAI).
Utilising Airbus innovation to meet the global market’s ever-changing needs, A380s are creating better, more efficient ways for airlines and passengers to fly. Compared to its nearest Very Large Aircraft competitor, the A380 has more range, uses shorter runways and offers more revenue with up to 50 per cent more seats – all while being quieter, both inside and out.
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