The Ultra Long Range version of the A350 XWB recently successfully completed its first flight from the airport adjacent
to the Toulouse assembly lines at the Airbus headquarters. The latest variant of the best-selling A350 XWB Family will be
able to fly further than any other commercial airliner and will enter service with launch operator, Singapore Airlines, in the second half of
this year.
The aircraft, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, has now embarked on a short flight test programme to certify the
changes over the standard A350-900 that will extend its range capability to 9 700 nautical miles. These changes include a modified
fuel system that increases fuel carrying capacity by 24 000 litres, without the need for additional fuel tanks. The test phase will
also measure enhanced performance from aerodynamic improvements, including extended winglets.
With a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 280 tonnes, the Ultra Long Range A350 XWB is capable of flying over 20 hours nonstop,
combining the highest levels of passenger and crew comfort with unbeatable economics for such distances.
Altogether, Singapore Airlines has ordered seven A350-900 Ultra Long Range aircraft, which it will use on non-stop flights between
Singapore and the U.S., including the world’s longest commercial service between Singapore and New York.
