Assembly of the 32 metre long carbon fibre wings for the first A350 XWB (MSN1) has started at Airbus’ recently opened “North Factory” in Broughton, UK. Most of the A350 XWB wing is made of light-weight carbon composites, including the upper and lower wing covers, stringers, front and rear spars. The advanced structural designs, combined with superior wing aerodynamics are both significant contributors to the 25% fuel saving performance of the aircraft.
Pre-assembly of ribs, upper and lower covers and fixed leading and trailing edges, has already taken place. These components will be moved into the main assembly jigs for full wing box integration. The ribs are produced by Korean Aerospace Industries in Korea. The upper and lower covers come from Airbus plants in Stade and Illescas respectively. In addition, Airbus extended enterprise partners, Spirit and GKN provide the fixed leading and trailing edges.
