Amanda Jacob

Airbus A350 XWB to enter service by end of 2014

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The A350 XWB has successfully passed water ingestion tests (performed by flight test aircraft MSN004), confirming its ability to operate on wet runways. The A350 is scheduled for entry into service with Qatar Airways in Q4 2014. (Picture © Airbus / A. Doumenjou.)
The A350 XWB has successfully passed water ingestion tests (performed by flight test aircraft MSN004), confirming its ability to operate on wet runways. The A350 is scheduled for entry into service with Qatar Airways in Q4 2014. (Picture © Airbus / A. Doumenjou.)

In its first quarter 2014 results statement, Airbus reports that the first two A350 XWB customer aircraft are now in the assembly line.

It also says that 4 of the 5 development A350 aircraft now flying and over 1600 flight test hours have been accumulated. 

  • The A350 XWB made its maiden flight in June 2013. Composites are used in primary structures including the the fuselage, wing and empennage.