Airbus took advantage of scheduled development test flights from Toulouse to assess the impact on the aircraft and its flight systems within the volcanic ash on aircraft over Europe. A380 MSN 004 flew for 3hr 50 min within French airspace and the A340-600 for 5 hrs in French and German airspace as per normal procedures.

The flight test crew did not notice anything abnormal and the post flight inspection showed no irregularities. We have passed the information to the engine manufacturers and the airworthiness authorities to support them in evaluating safe conditions for flight.

Tom Enders, President and CEO of Airbus said: “We are fully committed to work in close coordination with the aeronautical community and provide all technical assistance we can. Obviously, the entire industry wants to find a solution as soon as possible and see aircraft flying again in the European skies.”

Source: Airbus
Picture: Rob Vogelaar, ZAP16 Group