A350 XWB readied for static testing

Airbus’ A350 XWB static test airframe has moved into the facility where it will undergo testing to validate the structural design of this next-generation jetliner. The airframe rolled out of the A350 XWB final assembly line at Toulouse, Blagnac Airport and was transferred to the L34 static test hall situated across the airport in the Lagardère industrial zone – home to the A380 final assembly line. This clears the way for the A350 XWB airframe to be integrated into a test rig for a campaign that will submit it to nearly a year of evaluations, including limit load and ultimate load validations, along with residual strength and margin research. The L34 static test hall covers an area of 10,000 square meters, and is supported by 200 workers during peak testing activity. It houses a rig that incorporates 2,500 tons of steel and 240 jacks/loading lines, which are used to induce structural loads. The testing is recorded by some 12,000 sensors.