EASA Certifies A350 XWB For Up To 370-Minute ETOPS

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has approved the Airbus A350-900 for ETOPS (Extended-range Twin engine aircraft Operations) ‘Beyond 180 minutes’ diversion time.

The approval which includes ETOPS 180min in the basic specification also includes provisions for ETOPS 300min and ETOPS 370min depending on individual operator selection. The latter option extends the diversion distance up to an unprecedented 2,500nm – a distance which corresponds to a maximum ETOPS diversion time for the A350 of approximately 370 minutes, at one engine in operative speed under standard atmospheric conditions.

A350 operators will thus be able to serve new direct non-limiting routings, compared with a 180 minute ETOPS diversion time:

The ETOPS 370min option will be of particular benefit for new direct southern routes such as between Australia, South Africa and South America; while the ETOPS 300min option will facilitate more efficient transoceanic routes across the North and Mid-Pacific – such as from South East Asia to US, and Australasia to the US.

Meanwhile, operators flying on existing routes (currently flown with up to 180 minute diversion time) will be able to traverse a straighter and consequently quicker and more fuel efficient path, and also have access to more – and possibly better equipped – en-route diversion airports if needed.

The FAA’s respective ETOPS certification of the A350 is expected in the near future.