The A380, the most advanced and modern passenger aircraft, will participate for the first time at the international aviation and space salon MAKS, to be held from August 16th to 21st in Zhukovsky, Moscow region. Airbus flight test aircraft, MSN 004, will be present at the static display and take part in the flying displays every day during the show.

“The debut of the A380, the largest and most efficient airliner available today, will mark the 10th anniversary of MAKS airshow, Russia’s number one aeronautical event. Russian engineers and aviation industry suppliers participated in the development of the double-deck-aircraft and today also produce essential component parts. We are delighted to celebrate the premiere of the A380 at MAKS, together with the hundreds of thousands visitors to be expected,” said Chris Buckley, Executive Vice President, Europe, Asia and Pacific.

Powered by Engine Alliance GP7200 engines, MSN 004 is used in the ongoing A380 flight test program and thus equipped with sophisticated test instrumentation. The aircraft is currently testing latest product developments and the integration of new innovative equipment. It is also used for airlines’ pilot training.

The A380 is setting new standards for air transport by offering unequalled levels of passenger comfort, space and quietness in the cabin, as well as unmatched levels of operating costs and fuel efficiency. With a range of 8,300 nm / 15,200 km, it can seat 525 passengers in a three-class layout. The A380 not only complies with today’s noise limits, it is also significantly quieter than any other large aircraft flying today.

Total orders for the aircraft stand at 244 from 19 customers. Today, 46 A380s have been delivered to five airlines (Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Qantas, Air France and Lufthansa). The A380 fleet has achieved more than 30,000 commercial flights and accumulated over a quarter of million revenue flight hours and transported over 12 million passengers, serving some 20 airports.

Source: EADS
Photo: Rob Vogelaar, ZAPP