Etihad to Take Delivery of First Airbus A330-200F in September

[HD video below] Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates and Airbus have celebrated the carriers status as the launch customer for the world’s newest freighter aircraft, the wide-body A330-200F, at a ceremony at the Farnborough International Airshow.

 The aircraft will enter service with Etihad’s cargo business, Etihad Crystal Cargo in September this year.

“The new aircraft will become a key part of our freighter fleet and make a major contribution to building the strength and network of our cargo business. The additional capacity will help us significantly expand our footprint in Asia and Europe, including China, as well as enhancing our worldwide charter service,” said Etihad Chief Executive Officer James Hogan.

The aircraft will be on display throughout the airshow, after which it will undertake final pre-delivery preparations by the manufacturer in Toulouse.

The A330-200F is aimed at replacing ageing mid-sized freighters. It is the only modern mid-size, long haul, all-cargo aircraft capable of carrying 65 tonnes over 4,000nm/7,400km or 70 tonnes over 3,200nm/5,900km.

A3300-200F @ Singapore Airshow 2010

The first A330-200F in the flight test campaign - MSN1004 - which took to the skies in November 2009 powered by Pratt & Whitney PW4000 engines.

See also: HD Videos from Singapore Airshow 2010

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