Airbus innovates with “Airline 1” for A350 XWB test aircraft

Airbus introduces new flight test environment for A350 XWB

Well aware that introducing a new aircraft type into operation can sometimes represent a challenge for airlines, Airbus is taking a brand new approach in the organisation of flight test environment for its newest product: the A350 XWB.

The role of Airline 1 is to operate the flight test fleet in an “airline-like” environment using the same standard documentation and tools as a real airline. Other than pure flight test activity, Airline 1 brings in real operational constraints such as scheduling, maintenance and aircraft dispatch to ensure a smooth EIS for airlines and an “easy-to-use” aircraft from day one. Airline 1 will ensure technical management of the fleet and use traditional KPIs such as dispatch reliability, operational interruptions, etc.

Airline 1 is made up of 150 people and benefits from the operational experience brought by the resident representatives of 6 early A350 XWB customers.
The flight line has been fully refurbished to simulate airline operations and a new, dedicated hangar has been erected to allow for maintenance tasks and working parties.

Just like any ordinary airline, Airline 1 will request a fix for any flight test finding and will also be responsible for implementing that fix on the flight test aircraft.

The airline fleet which is currently composed of two A350 XWB (MSN1& MSN3) and will double in size early next year with the arrival of MSN2 and MSN4. MSN2 will feature a full passenger cabin as will MSN5 that will complete the fleet next spring.

Airline 1 is entirely focussed on producing a high quality, mature aircraft at entry-into-service and will deliver proven processes, tools and documentation to minimize operational teething problems.

For more information contact:
Mike Bausor
A350 XWB Marketing Director
mike.bausor@airbus.com