Airbus delivers last 'flying whale'
Based on the A330-200 freighter, each BelugaXL has a payload of 51 tonnes, a range of 2,200 nautical miles and can carry the largest A350 fuselage section - or two of the widebody’s 30-metre-long wings – whereas its predecessor could carry only one.
The handover marked the closure of the BelugaXL program, which launched in 2014.
The BelugaXL development team shortened decision loops and simplified manufacturing processes, with parts, equipment and design principles copied from other Airbus platforms wherever possible.
“Our instructions were to halve the BXL’s original development cost and deliver it within five years,” said Bertrand George, who led the plane’s development.
“Fortunately we had carte blanche to explore novel approaches to make it happen. Those experiences will be beneficial to future programs in all of Airbus’ businesses.”
ATI hopes to operate the BelugaXL fleet for 30 years.
