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Airbus has received approval
to begin making firm commercial offers to launch customers for two new members of its wide-body
family, sisterships of the A330s, called “A350” models.
Due to enter service in the first half of 2010, the A350 models will complement the existing Airbus A330 and A340
product line.
“The long range market is becoming more segmented in terms of size and range. Airbus has listened to its
customers, who were interested in the medium size category with greater range to complement their current
Airbus wide-body Families. As a result of this demand, we are now pleased to offer the A350, which, in addition to
its intrinsic characteristics, is in the unique position of being a full member of a comprehensive airliner family,
hence benefiting from an unmatched level of commonality”, said Airbus President and CEO Noël Forgeard. “We are now in the unique position to satisfy all airlines’ demands in the long
range sector, from the 250 seater to the high capacity A380."
The market for aircraft in the 250-300 seat category is estimated at some 3,100 new aircraft over the next 20
years, of which Airbus expects to get at least 50 per cent.
The A350 will be offered in two versions. The A350-800 will typically seat 245 passengers in a long range three
class configuration and have a range in excess of 8,600 nm / 15,900 km, providing ultra long range capability in
this “medium size” seating category. Seating 285 passengers in a similar configuration, the A350-900 will have a range of more than 7,500 nm /
13,900 km, allowing operators to benefit from exceptionally low unit costs in the most competitive mainstream
markets.
Although eligible for a choice of
engines, the initial A350s will be powered by two new generation General Electric engines which, thanks to new
technologies, will generate a double-digit improvement in fuel efficiency.
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