The A330neo is demonstrating its capabilities as the newest member of Airbus’ proven and highly-reliable twin-engine A330 Family, with flight testing continuing ahead of its planned service entry in Summer 2018.
Two test aircraft have logged more than 700 hours aloft in the 200-plus flights performed as of April 10, according to A330neo aircraft integration and flight testing integrated product team (IPT) leader Jean-Christophe Bonjour.
He noted that flight testing has covered the globe, including the cold weather validations in Kazakhstan in temperatures as low as -27° C., natural icing testing in the United States, crosswind landing evaluations in Ireland, a Bolivia-based altitude campaign at 8,000 ft., and recently-completed hot weather trials in Mexico, which had temperatures of up to 37° C.
The new-generation A330neo, powered by highly-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 powerplants, has a longer wingspan with new high-efficiency Sharklets and incorporates Airbus’ innovative Airspace cabin that it has in common with the A350 XWB.
Further improving the A330neo capabilities is the launch of an increased-range version, with a nine metric tonne increase to the maximum takeoff weight to 251 metric tonnes. This provides up to 1,500 nautical miles more range when compared to typical A330s in service today, enabling airlines to open new markets, while radically improving aircraft economic efficiency, Hamilton added.