THE Airbus A380 superjumbo took off from Sydney on its 100th commercial flight yesterday after a dream introduction into service.
Singapore Airlines says the double-decker plane has been flying more than 90 per cent full and has so far has achieved 100per cent reliability.
Sydney-Singapore is the world’s first commercial route for the big plane and has been the subject of international attention as the first test of its reliability in service.
The spotlight has been particularly focused on a two-hour turnaround in Sydney.
But the superjumbo has so far performed with flying colours on all counts and the airline says the only delays have been weather-related.
The Sydney-Singapore introduction is providing invaluable lessons as the airline heads towards the launch of daily Singapore-London services after the arrival of its third plane in late February.
Singapore Airlines spokesman Stephen Forshaw said the new aircraft was achieving its high load factor. “The flight is achieving above a 90 per cent load factor on 471 seats, which is substantially more seats than a Boeing 747 has full
Source: The Australian
By: Schorsch - 21st December 2007 at 09:01
It’s usually the width of the runways and the taxiways that’s the problem.. due to the extra large wing span and the outer starboard and port engines ingesting debris..if the AN-225 can land and take off from any of these ports ..i think the A380 could do likewise
The AN-225 is operated under special regulations. If it can operate from their, it does not mean that commercial operations are feasible with aircraft of nearly similar size.
By: steve rowell - 21st December 2007 at 05:09
I think LGW STN MAN MSE and some more could handle the A380 on the runway but maybe not there taxiways.
James
It’s usually the width of the runways and the taxiways that’s the problem.. due to the extra large wing span and the outer starboard and port engines ingesting debris..if the AN-225 can land and take off from any of these ports ..i think the A380 could do likewise
By: Schorsch - 20th December 2007 at 08:15
Indeed good news for Airbus. The single in-service aircraft helps to focus resources on this one. Looks like this time the “green banana” is little bit more yellow than it was when Airbus delivered the A340-600.
By: Manston Airport - 19th December 2007 at 13:58
Im sure LHR will be packed the day the A380 comes in from Singapore. Could LGW handle the A380 also or is it just LHR for London?
I think LGW STN MAN MSE and some more could handle the A380 on the runway but maybe not there taxiways.
James
By: andrewm - 19th December 2007 at 10:01
That’s brilliant news for Airbus. Im sure if this continues into the New Year we may see some new customers whom stayed away due to delays and concerns over reliability?
Im sure LHR will be packed the day the A380 comes in from Singapore. Could LGW handle the A380 also or is it just LHR for London?
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December 19, 2007 at 7:39 am