Airbus A350 News
Airbus rolls out first A350-900ULR
- 28 February 2018 -
Airbus has rolled out the first A350-900ULR, the Ultra Long Range version of its newest jet airliner in Toulouse, on 28 February 2018. The A350-900ULR will be able to fly farther than any other commercial airliner.
Launch operator is Singapore Airlines, which has ordered seven aircraft of which the first will be delivered later this year. SIA will use it on non-stop flights between Singapore and the US, including the world’s projected longest commercial service between Singapore and New York.
The first aircraft is not finished yet. It has been moved from the final assembly line to an outdoor station for extensive ground tests prior to installation of two Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. After completion the aircraft will undergo a short flight test programme to certify the changes over the standard A350-900 for the additional range capability. The aircraft has a modified fuel system and can tank 24,000 litres more than the standard aircraft. The tests will also measure enhanced performance derived from aerodynamic improvements, including extended winglets.
The A350-900ULR has a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 280 tonnes and can fly up to 9,700 nautical miles or over 20 hours non-stop.
Singapore Airlines has ordered a total of 67 A350s, including the seven ULR aircraft. It has so far taken delivery of 21 A350-900s.
