Airbus to show off A350 at Singapore Airshow

CEBU, Philippines - Airbus has confirmed it will show off its all-new A350 XWB at the Singapore Airshow next month, marking the first full display of the aircraft at an international air show.

The flight test aircraft participating in Singapore will be MSN003, which will be on static display from February 11 to 12 and will also take part in the flying display on both days.

The A350 XWB is the world’s most modern mid-size widebody and is currently at an advanced phase of its flight test programme, with entry into commercial service set for the fourth quarter of this year.

The aircraft’s participation at Singapore will enable trade visitors to get a close-up look at the aircraft both on the ground and in the air, with a flying display that will demonstrate its manoeuvrability, sleek design and exceptionally low noise levels.

“I am very pleased to announce that we will bring the A350 XWB to Singapore,” said Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and Chief Executive Officer. “The Asia Pacific region is the  fastest growing market for the air transport industry and will drive future demand for widebody aircraft in all seat categories. The A350 XWB will set new standards in the mid-size category and will consolidate our position as the provider of the world’s most modern, comprehensive and efficient widebody product line.”

Featuring an extra-wide cabin and non-stop flying capability of up to 8,250 nautical miles, the A350 XWB will be especially well suited to the needs of Asia Pacific airlines flying to Europe and North America. Carriers from the region that have already ordered the aircraft include AirAsia X, Air China, Asiana Airlines, Cathay Pacific Airways, China Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, Japan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, SriLankan Airlines, Thai Airways International and Vietnam Airlines.

To date, firm orders from the region for the aircraft already total 244, representing 30%t of total A350 XWB sales.

812 Airbus A350 XWBs have thus far been ordered by 39 customers worldwide. (FREEMAN)