Airbus has started the assembly of the first A350 XWB’s horizontal taiplane (HTP) in Getafe (Spain). The joining of the two lateral boxes will produce the 17 metre span primary structure of the HTP.

Structural assembly will continue over the coming weeks, followed by the installation of the unit’s electric and hydraulic systems. Once the assembly and equipping work is finished, the HTP will be flown by Airbus’ Beluga transport aircraft to the Final Assembly Line in Toulouse (France).