The Ultra Long Range version of the A350 XWB,
MSN 216, has successfully completed its first flight.
The latest variant of the A350 XWB Family will be able to fly
further than any other commercial airliner and will enter service
with launch operator Singapore Airlines in the second half of 2018.
The aircraft powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines has embarked
on a short flight test programme to certify the changes over the
standard A350-900 that will extend its range capability to 9,700
nautical miles.
The changes include a modified fuel system that
increases fuel carrying capacity by 24,000 litres, without the
need for additional fuel tanks.
The test phase will also measure enhanced performance from aerodynamic improvements, including
extended winglets.
With a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 280
tonnes, the Ultra Long Range A350 XWB is capable of flying over 20
hours non-stop.
Altogether, Singapore Airlines has ordered seven A350-900 Ultra
Long Range aircraft, which it will use on non-stop flights between
Singapore and the US, including the worlds longest commercial
service between Singapore and New York.
Singapore Airlines is one of
the largest customers for the A350 XWB Family, having ordered a
total of 67 A350-900s, including the the seven Ultra Long Range
models. The carrier has already taken delivery of 21 A350-900s.
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