Airbus A350F test aircraft set for maiden flight

Airbus's first A350F flight-test aircraft rolled out in a 'flying parcel' livery and is targeting a maiden flight around September 24, with October possible if more preparation is needed.

File photograph illustrating: Airbus A350F test aircraft set for maiden flight
File photo · Thomas Woodtli from Zürich, Switzerland · CC BY 2.0

Airbus A350

Airbus is moving toward the first flight of its A350F freighter, with the initial flight-test aircraft now rolled out. The aircraft carries the registration F-WXLD and emerged from the paint shop on August 19 in a distinctive "flying parcel" livery.

The maiden flight is currently targeted for around September 24, according to the manufacturer's plan. Airbus could shift the event into October should additional preparation be required before the aircraft is cleared to fly.

Once the A350F begins test flying, its movements are expected to become visible on flight-tracking services, allowing observers to follow the programme. The aircraft is the first of a new generation of large freighters to reach the flight-test stage.

Sources

  • simpleflying.comAirbus' 'Flying Parcel' Freighter Is About To Take Its First Flight: Here's What To Watch For