Lifting of restrictions permits all aircraft to fly subject to completion of checks

Airbus Defence and Space is about to recommence deliveries of Airbus A400M aircraft following the lifting of all remaining flight restrictions on new production aircraft by Spanish regulator DGAM yesterday.

As a result, all A400Ms are now cleared for flight provided they have undergone the checks specified by the manufacturer in the Alert Operator Transmission (AOT) of 19 May 2015. Airbus Defence and Space´s own three development aircraft, and the 12 aircraft delivered to customers prior to the accident were not affected by the restrictions.

The production plan for the year is under review following the accident but currently is still targeting at least 13 aircraft in 2015, plus up to four more subject to flight-test results due this summer.

Two aircraft which were due for delivery at the time of the accident are expected to be delivered in a matter of days with a number of others to follow in the coming weeks.

Head of Military Aircraft Fernando Alonso said: “We appreciate the Spanish authorities’ timely action in restoring our permission to fly without restriction as well as our customers’ patience and support in recent weeks. We are working hard to bring the schedule back on track while continuing to support the investigation.”

Press release: Airbus

Picture: Rob Vogelaar