Singapore | September 20, 2019–Singapore Airlines (SIA) has become the world’s first airline to host a live TV news broadcast from on board a commercial A380 flight powered by SITAONAIR’s high-speed Internet ONAIR over GX Aviation.

The broadcast by Sky Sports featured live interviews with the Alfa Romeo team travelling from Zurich to Singapore on board flight SQ346 for this year’s FORMULA 1 SINGAPORE AIRLINES SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX 2019. Fans on the ground were able to watch live as the team discussed what life is like in the sky, travelling to world-class racing destinations, while staying connected to their lives on the ground.

Singapore Airlines is able to keep its customers connected through SITAONAIR’s high-speed, reliable and advanced inflight connectivity portal, Internet ONAIR, powered by Link ONAIR over Inmarsat’s GX Aviation satellite network. A first of its kind, the live broadcast truly demonstrated how SITAONAIR supports the airline in providing ‘always-on’, reliable connectivity for passengers who need to keep in contact with work and loved ones.

As a long-standing SITAONAIR customer, Singapore Airlines is committed to providing best-in-class inflight connectivity. The airline adopted SITAONAIR’s Internet ONAIR and Mobile ONAIR services in 2017, which are designed to provide super-fast and uninterrupted connection over land or sea.

SITAONAIR’s Commercial Regional VP Asia-Pacific, Katrina Korzenowski, comments: “We’re excited to support Singapore Airlines in this pioneering venture, bringing live broadcast interviews to fans on the ground from 35,000 feet! The event is a testament to SIA’s dedication to outstanding passenger experience, as well as SITAONAIR’s ever-evolving work with Inmarsat to provide highly reliable, advanced inflight connectivity to airlines throughout the globe.”

To find out more about SITAONAIR’s cabin connectivity services, visit www.sitaonair.aero, speak to your local SITAONAIR contact, or submit an enquiry form.  

• Emirates to reduce its A380 orderbook by 39 aircraft
• Orders 40 A330neo and 30 A350s
• Last delivery of A380 scheduled for 2021

Toulouse, France | February 14, 2019– Following a review of its operations, and in light of developments in aircraft and engine technologies, Emirates is reducing its A380 orderbook from 162 to 123 aircraft. Emirates will take delivery of 14 further A380s over the next two years. As a consequence and given the lack of order backlog with other airlines, Airbus will cease deliveries of the A380  in 2021.

Emirates has also decided to continue growing with Airbus’ newest generation, flexible widebody aircraft, ordering 40 A330-900 and 30 A350-900 aircraft.

“As a result of this decision we have no substantial A380 backlog and hence no basis to sustain production, despite all our sales efforts with other airlines in recent years. This leads to the end of A380 deliveries in 2021,” said Airbus Chief Executive Officer Tom Enders. “The consequences of this decision are largely embedded in our 2018 full year results”.

“The A380 is not only an outstanding engineering and industrial achievement. Passengers all over the world love to fly on this great aircraft. Hence today’s announcement is painful for us and the A380 communities worldwide. But, keep in mind that A380s will still roam the skies for many years to come and Airbus will of course continue to fully support the A380 operators,” Tom Enders added.

“The A380 is Emirates’ flagship and has contributed to the airline’s success for more than ten years. As much as we regret the airline’s position, selecting the A330neo and A350 for its future growth is a great endorsement of our very competitive widebody aircraft family,” said Guillaume Faury, President of Airbus Commercial Aircraft and future Airbus CEO. “Going forward, we are fully committed to deliver on the longstanding confidence Emirates is placing in Airbus.”

Airbus will start discussions with its social partners in the next few weeks regarding the 3,000 to 3,500 positions potentially impacted over the next three years. However, the ongoing A320 ramp-up and the new widebody order from Emirates Airline will offer a significant number of internal mobility opportunities.

France | July 31, 2018– Airbus has released an Android version* of the iflyA380 app, already available for iOS users, bringing the experience of flying on the iconic A380 to even more passengers.

In recent years, new technological advances have transformed the expectations of always-connected travellers who demand super convenience, personalization and speed of use in every aspect of their travel booking. So far, travellers have been able to control every aspect of their trip, except for one of the most important elements – the plane they fly in.

The popular iflyA380.com booking assistant has changed this by offering travellers a unique platform to search and book flights on the A380, the passengers’ favourite jetliner. Building on the website’s success – millions of visitors since launch in 2016 – the iflyA380 app, launched in March 2018 for iOS users, brings more features and content to smartphone users who have downloaded the app over 40,000 times in less than 6 months.

A web platform and a mobile app that enhance the A380 experience

All destinations and prices are one click away and can be viewed on this useful map.

Travellers will also enjoy a wide range of exclusive innovative services linked to the A380, including:

•  The option to explore destinations based on geolocation and personal interests.
•  Cabin discovery in Virtual Reality.
•  A connected and immersive in-flight experience based on an Augmented Reality (AR) feature.

To try for yourself, head to the Play Store here. The app searches 30+ available airlines that fly the double-decker A380 and provides a booking service. With the AR feature, passengers can take a virtual tour of the cabin, get a sneak peek into the cockpit, and explore their destination airport.

 

Smart travellers choose the A380

What makes a flight special? Surely it’s feeling that your comfort matters, that your well-being matters. That you matter. A380 customers are smart travellers with the highest expectations. Rest assured, with the A380 no detail will be overlooked, whether you’re traveling first class, business class or economy. The very best airlines operate the A380, so every time you choose to fly our plane, you know they will take extra special care of you.

Airbus is empowering travellers to travel as smartly as possible. The Fly Smart hub contains tips, advice and information to make the most of your flight on one of the 228** A380 in service, whatever class of travel you choose, and whether you’re traveling for business or looking forward to your next leisure trip. So Choose. Fly. Love A380.

• Record commercial aircraft deliveries of 688
• 731 net orders, book-to-bill above one
• Healthy backlog of 6,874 aircraft

France | January 11, 2017– Airbus’ commercial aircraft deliveries in 2016 were up for the 14th year in a row, reaching a new company record of 688 aircraft delivered to 82 customers. Deliveries were more than eight percent higher than the previous record of 635 set in 2015. These included 545 single aisle A320 Family of which 68 were A320neo, 66 A330s, 49 A350 XWBs and 28 A380s. Over 40 percent of single aisle deliveries were the larger A321 models.

Airbus achieved 731 net orders from 51 customers of which eight are new. These included 607 single aisle and 124 wide-body aircraft. At the end of 2016, Airbus’ overall backlog stood at 6,874 aircraft valued at US$1,018 billion at list prices.

“We delivered on our objectives in a challenging environment, proving our ramp-up readiness for the future. I salute all our teams on this outstanding achievement,” said Fabrice Brégier, President of Airbus Commercial Aircraft and Chief Operating Officer of Airbus. “Our strong operational performance combined with a robust market eager to place orders and take deliveries of aircraft in all sizes are now an excellent springboard for our next steps: Boosting deliveries, harnessing the advantages of Digital and extending our service portfolio globally.”

Notable milestones in 2016 included the delivery of Airbus 10,000th aircraft – an A350 XWB and the successful first flight of the largest member of the programme: the A350-1000. Airbus also commenced deliveries of both engine variants of the A320neo, the world’s best-selling single aisle aircraft. Meanwhile, the Pratt & Whitney powered A321neo was certified and the first US-assembled aircraft, an A321, was delivered from Mobile, Alabama.

Other milestones included the entry into service of the first A330 regional and the start of construction of the China A330 Completion and Delivery Centre, while the A330neo commenced assembly in the Final Assembly Line. The Airspace by Airbus cabin brand was launched as the new standard in passenger experience for the A330neo and A350 XWB programmes. Airbus also launched the Ifly A380 website enabling passengers to support differentiation and book flights on their A380 of choice.

Singapore | October 25, 2016– Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic), the worldwide leader in inflight entertainment and communications (IFEC), today announced that it has been selected by Airbus as lead supplier for High Bandwidth Connectivity (HBC) technology on its A320, A330, and A380 platforms.

Panasonic’s Global Communications Service uses a Ku-band satellite network to deliver high-speed communications services on 99.6 percent of all air traffic routes. The service lets passengers connect to the people, digital entertainment, and web content of their choice. It also enables Panasonic’s eXTV solution, which is the industry’s only global inflight television service.

Over 70 customers have selected Panasonic’s Global Communications Service for more than 3,500 aircraft. The company estimates that an additional 12,000 aircraft will be committed to its high-speed network by 2025.

Chris Lundquist, Vice President of OEM Accounts, Corporate Strategy and Business Development for Panasonic Avionics Corporation comments: “Over the past six years, Panasonic has delivered more than 60 high-speed wireless connectivity systems to Airbus for linefit installation across its A380, A330 and A350 platforms. We are pleased to extend this capability to A320 and thus across all Airbus platforms”

“By signing the HBC contract, we have enhanced our tremendous relationship with Airbus and look forward to providing our industry-leading broadband communications solutions for their aircraft. Together, both companies will improve passenger’s inflight experience and extend, enhance and differentiate our airline customer’s brands.”

Panasonic currently has the largest number of connectivity-enabled aircraft types installed and the most Wi-Fi enabled aircraft flying international routes.

• Airport mapping database Lido/AMDB meets criteria of Letter of Acceptance Type 1 and Type 2 from EASA and can be used at A350 and A380 as of now

Raunheim, Germany | May 3, 2016– Lufthansa Systems today announced that is has received the Letter of Acceptance (LoA) Type 2 from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for its Lido/AMDB airport mapping database. This LoA certifies navigation data for delivery to end users. Lufthansa Systems supported the EASA significantly in developing the complex test procedure and is the first provider of airport mapping data to be certified by EASA.

The airport mapping database supports pilots during all taxiing procedures that could pose a challenge depending on the airport size and weather conditions. In order to ensure the safety of the passengers and crew, the Lido/AMDB data needs to be absolutely reliable.

In 2014, Lufthansa Systems received the LoA Type 1, which confirms that its processes for producing airport layout data comply with the conditions and quality standards required by EASA. In certain types of aircraft, such as the Airbus A350 and A380, these data are more closely tied to the plane’s avionics systems and must therefore meet the special test requirements of the LoA Type 2 from EASA.

In the A350, for example, the Lido/AMDB data is used in calculations made by the Runway Overrun Prevention System (ROPS). The ROPS on the A350 is an additional function of the Brake To Vacate system (BTV), which calculates the necessary braking distance during the approach with the help of Lido/AMDB data. If there are deviations, the system supports pilots by alerting them if the available landing distance has been determined to be too short.

“We are delighted that our Lido/AMDB database meets the high certification standards of EASA so we can now cover the entire data supply chain,” said Frank Wigold, Director Quality Management at Lufthansa Systems.

Lufthansa Systems is the first provider of airport mapping data to be certified by EASA. Unlike the certificates held by other organizations, the LoA Type 2 requires that the data be checked prior to each delivery – which is 13 times a year. This unique test procedure was developed by Lufthansa Systems and assessed by EASA.

The LoA Type 2 certifies data compatibility for the ANF A350 XWB, OANS A380, Single Aisle and Long Range platforms. You can find more information about the Letter of Acceptance from EASA here: https://www.easa.europa.eu/navigation-database-suppliers-letters-acceptance#main-content

Hamburg, Germany | April 5, 2016– Airbus has selected Rockwell Collins as a lead supplier of High-Bandwidth Connectivity (HBC) for the Airbus A320 single-aisle family of aircraft, and long-range A330 and A380 aircraft.

Under the terms of the agreement, airlines purchasing Airbus aircraft can select HBC from Rockwell Collins to meet the growing demand for high-speed connectivity.

“In our day-to-day conversations with our airline customers, the need for high-speed connectivity is top of mind. The solution we’re providing meets the significant pressure airlines are getting from their passengers to provide a superior connectivity service while flying,” said Greg Irmen, vice president and general manager, Flight Controls and Information Systems, Rockwell Collins. “We’re excited to be part of the movement to bring people together around the world, no matter where they may be.”

As a lead supplier, Rockwell Collins will collaborate with Airbus to develop and deploy both a linefit and retrofit HBC system to ensure an end-to-end managed SATCOM solution. Specific details about the technology solution will be released as they are finalized.

Airbus’s HBC selection builds upon Rockwell Collins’ extensive amount of next-generation systems it supplies the aircraft maker. Numerous Rockwell Collins systems are standard on the Airbus A350 XWB and options for the A320 and A330 aircraft families. Most recently, Rockwell Collins was selected by Airbus to supply its Electronic Flight Bag interface and communications unit, which is part of its Secure Server Router portfolio, as options on A320s and A330s.

Hamburg, Germany | April 7, 2016– Leading aircraft cabin lighting company, STG Aerospace, has expanded its saf-Tsign® product range with a new self-adhesive, photoluminescent decal designed to subtly illuminate the AC outlet unit on airline seats.

Malaysia Airlines has become the launch customer for the latest saf-Tsign® product which has been successfully installed across the airline’s fleet of A380 aircraft earlier this year.

The new saf-Tsign® photoluminescent solution will enable passengers to find the AC outlet unit during low light or dark conditions. Easily installed, the decal can be customised to any size or shape, making it equally suitable for other applications on the seat such as headphone sockets and seat numbers. With a charging time of 5 to 45 minutes, depending on cabin light levels, the sign will deliver up to 14 hours of light output.

STG Aerospace has been manufacturing and supplying high-quality, industry-approved saf-Tsign® products for over 20 years. The leading brand of photoluminescent emergency and informational signage, developed for both commercial and military fixed-wing and rotary aircraft, saf-Tsign® is a low-cost, environmentally friendly, direct replacement for tritium signs. 100% fail-safe, saf-Tsign® has the added benefit of zero operating costs and can be tailor-made to suit individual operators’ requirements.

Marcus Williams, added: “This is a great example of our commitment to the ongoing development of a truly innovative, holistic and cost effective cabin lighting product range. The STG Aerospace R&D team are continuously looking for ways to expand our product range to solve customer problems and improve the passenger experience. saf-Tsign® continues to be the number one choice for cabin signage for numerous OEMs and airlines worldwide.”

France | February 16, 2016– Airbus got off to a good start in 2016, in particular for its best-selling wide body family with 16 aircraft orders booked in January, comprising 14 all new A330-900neo’s from an undisclosed customer and two A320ceo’s from fast growing Hong Kong based lessor, CALC (China Aircraft Leasing Company).

The main highlight of Airbus’ deliveries in January 2016 was the very first A320neo that went to Lufthansa, the launch customer of the world’s best-selling and most fuel efficient single-aisle aircraft. Including the first A320neo, Airbus handed over a total of 22 aircraft in January to 18 customers, comprising 17 A320 Family, 4 A330s and one A380.

As a result of the fulfilment of conditions precedent occurring in January 2016, Airbus can now include an additional net 44 aircraft within the Year End 2015 Order Book, leading to an adjustment of the 2015 Full Year commercial results announced in early January. This increases Airbus’ 2015 total gross orders to 1,190 (valued at 159.9 billion US$) and total net orders to 1,080 (valued at 141.6 billion US$). Airbus 2015 end of year backlog stands at 6,831 valued at 1,000.9 billion US dollars at 2015 list prices.

Headquartered in Toulouse, France, Airbus is the leading commercial aircraft manufacturer with the most modern, comprehensive and efficient family of airliners, ranging in capacity from 100 to more than 500 seats. Employing some 55,000 people, Airbus champions innovative technologies and has sold over 16,300 aircraft to around 400 customers worldwide. Airbus has design and manufacturing facilities in France, Germany, the UK, and Spain, as well as subsidiaries in the US, China, Japan, India and in the Middle East. In addition, it provides the highest standard of customer support and training through an expanding international network.

For further information and updated 2015 full year commercial results: www.airbus.com/presscentre

• Connectivity upgrade for improved passenger experience

Preview APEX Asia Conference/FTE Asia EXPO | November 9, 2015– Singapore Airlines will deploy SITAONAIR‘s next-generation passenger high-speed broadband connectivity services (Wi-Fi and mobile phone text and data services) on its long range fleet, using Inmarsat’s GX Aviation satellite network.

Singapore Airlines and SITAONAIR have been at the forefront of inflight connectivity innovation. The airline was an early adopter of connectivity, on its A340s, as well as one of the first to provide connectivity on the A380. Recently, it has been providing free Wi-Fi sessions to the passengers in First and Business Class cabins through promotional sponsorship.

The airline’s priority has always been to provide the very best inflight experience and knows passenger connectivity solutions have a central role in that.

The third GX Aviation satellite was successfully launched at the end of August, completing the constellation that provides consistent global coverage. GX Aviation provides data speeds of up to 50MBps to the aircraft: for the very first time, there really will be no difference between being in the air and being on the ground. The onboard Wi-Fi will reflect what most people are used to at home. It will also provide Singapore Airlines with greater capabilities to personalize its services.

“Singapore Airlines is one of the most respected carriers in the world. By choosing SITAONAIR services, it clearly demonstrates the superiority of GX Aviation in terms of passenger experience, reliable and global coverage,” said Ian Dawkins, CEO of SITAONAIR. “What is particularly exciting is that this is only the beginning of what we can do with connectivity. We already provide connectivity solutions for airline operations, from flight tracking to crew tablets, and from electronic flights bags to air traffic control AIRCOM services. The introduction of GX Aviation opens up a whole new world of opportunities for the connected aircraft.”

The installation of the first GX Aviation system powered by Honeywell’s JetWave satellite communications hardware is scheduled for the second half of 2016.
The first aircraft type to be equipped will be Singapore Airlines’ B777-300ER aircraft, followed by A380-800s and A350-900s.

As well as being the Wi-Fi Internet and mobile phone service provider, SITAONAIR will also manage the certification process of the GX Aviation system for the B777-300ER fleet, and provide the airborne GX Aviation systems for both the Boeing and the A380-800 fleets. Thales will provide the airborne connectivity system for the A350-900s with SITAONAIR providing the Wi-Fi Internet and Mobile phone service. Zodiac Inflight Innovations will provide the JetWave GX Aviation Satcom for the A380-800 and B777-300ER retrofit programs.

Preview APEX Regional Conference/FTE Asia | November 9, 2015– Singapore Airlines will deploy high-speed connectivity on its long range fleet, with Zodiac Inflight Innovations providing the GX Aviation equipment including RADOME and ARINC 791 installation provisions for their A380 and B777 aircraft. Zodiac Inflight Innovations will supply the equipment for the retrofit program through SITAONAIR and will also be providing the equipment directly for the A380s. This will be the first Inmarsat GX Aviation system to be installed and is scheduled for the second half of 2016.
“We are thrilled to be part of this ground breaking program”, says Larry Girard Executive Vice President of Zodiac Inflight Innovations. Zodiac Inflight Innovations is using its system integration expertise, to bring together all of the system components; including the Honeywell Jetwave GX terminal, continue Girard. Singapore Airlines has been at the forefront of inflight connectivity innovation. The airline was an early adopter of connectivity, on its A340s, as well as one of the first to provide connectivity on the A380. Recently, it has been providing free Wi-Fi sessions to the passengers in First and Business Class cabins through promotional sponsorship. The airline’s priority has always been to provide the very best inflight experience and knows passenger connectivity solutions have a central role in that.
“Singapore Airlines is one of the most respected carriers in the world. By choosing Zodiac Inflight Innovations as the equipment provider and SITAONAIR services, Singapore Airlines is clearly demonstrating their belief in the superiority of GX Aviation in terms of passenger experience, reliable global coverage and support, says Matt Smith Zodiac Inflight Innovations CEO”. “Singapore is our first customer, but we are also excited about what is yet to come, continues Smith.
The first aircraft type to be equipped will be Singapore Airlines’ B777-300ER aircraft, followed by A380-800s.

• Eight A350 XWBs, three A330s, 20 A320neos for the group

France | August 6, 2015– International Airlines Group (IAG) has signed a firm order for 31 Airbus aircraft, which includes 11 wide-body aircraft (eight A350-900s, three A330-200s) and 20 A320neos. The A350s and A330s are slated for Iberia’s fleet modernisation and to open new long-haul routes, and the A320neos will be allocated to the group’s airlines for fleet replacement.

With this latest order for 31 aircraft IAG and its airlines have ordered a total of nearly 450 aircraft from Airbus. IAG’s airlines British Airways, Iberia and Vueling, between them operate nearly every aircraft in Airbus’ product range from the smallest single aisle A318 to the world’s largest wide-body A380.

“IAG’s additional order for A350s and A330s is very significant for us and highlights the appeal of our leading wide-body Family. It always fills us with great pride when one of our biggest and most influential customers recognises the superior operating economics and passenger experience of our aircraft”, said John Leahy, Chief Operating Officer – Customers. “The repeat selection of the A320neo is also a great endorsement of the world’s preferred single aisle Family among the world’s most prestigious carriers.”

The A350 XWB is the world’s most modern and efficient aircraft family. Over 780 aircraft have been ordered and five delivered. Since entering into service in January 2015, the fleet of five A350 XWBs have demonstrated high operational reliability and passenger appeal. The A330 is one of the most popular and versatile widebody aircraft ever and has to date won over 1,500 orders, with over 1,200 delivered to some 110 operators worldwide.

The A330, the A350 XWB and A380 make up the Airbus widebody aircraft Family, which uniquely spans the 250 to over-500 seats segment.

The A320neo Family aircraft offers the lowest operating costs of any single aisle aircraft delivering 15% fuel burn reduction at entry into service, and 20% by 2020, achieved through cabin innovations, latest engine technologies, and overall efficiency improvements. To date, the A320 Family has won more than 11,800 orders and over 6,600 aircraft delivered to more than 300 operators worldwide.

• First-ever Korean Finance Lease for Airbus A380
• Unique fixed coupon, 15-year term and 100 per cent financing

Abu Dhabi | March 19, 2015– Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, has completed a Korean Finance Lease for its second new Airbus A380 aircraft.

The funding was provided by way of a private placement with a group of major Korean institutional investors and was arranged by London-based aviation finance specialists Magi Partners in conjunction with their Korean associates, Youjee Partners. The deal follows non-deal roadshow meetings between Etihad Airways and Korean investors in early 2014, and a competitive global request for proposals last summer.

The transaction, which is structured as a 15-year, fixed coupon full-payout finance lease, is the first ever Korean financing to be arranged covering the entire cost of a brand new A380 aircraft.

The aircraft is the second of a fleet of ten A380s on order from Etihad Airways to enter service and, like all the airline’s A380s, features The Residence by Etihad™.*

Since inception Etihad Airways has raised more than US$10.5 billion from over 70 financial institutions and lessors to fund its fleet of aircraft and engines.

James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “We are delighted to have engaged so positively with Korean investors, thereby securing strong interest from Korean institutions in the course of our first entry into the Korean market, which we see as a potentially fruitful longer term partnership for us in the future.”

Peter Vardigans of Magi Partners, said: “This financing is a landmark deal for the Korean market and we are delighted to have been able to complete this transaction for such a prestigious airline as Etihad Airways. We anticipate that Korean institutions will provide a growing strategic source of capital for the global aviation market. “

• Etihad Airways Airbus A380 flight installed with AeroMobile services

London | February 23, 2015– AeroMobile has celebrated the first Airbus A380 to be fully line-fitted with its inflight mobile phone network. The Etihad Airways A380-800 (A6-APA) aircraft’s inaugural flight with AeroMobile services was from Abu Dhabi to London Heathrow, touching down on Friday 13 February 2015. This successful maiden flight paves the way for future A380s to be fitted with AeroMobile services.

The newly-connected aircraft accommodates 498 guests in total – 417 in Economy Class, 70 in Business Class, 9 in First Class and two in The Residence cabin.

Etihad Airways now has AeroMobile connectivity on 59 aircraft serving worldwide destinations from the Middle East. The AeroMobile service is also fitted to Etihad Airways’ Airbus A330-200, A330-300, A340-500 and A340-600 aircraft.

AeroMobile, a mobile network operator, enables airline passengers to roam inflight. The company provides technology and services that allow the safe use of passengers’ own mobile phones onboard aircraft.

AeroMobile’s inflight mobile services have proved incredibly popular with passengers since the first flight in March 2008. In fact, since launch over 23.6 million passengers have successfully connected to the network and 2014 saw a strong increase in the uptake of AeroMobile services from airlines and passengers, which reflects the needs of the modern traveler; to always be connected.
AeroMobile has roaming agreements with more than 285 operators in over 130 countries, including UAE operators Etisalat and Du and O2, EE, Three and Vodafone in the UK.

“It’s very exciting to kick off 2015 with our first AeroMobile-connected A380. With demand for inflight connectivity increasing year-on-year, we’re looking forward to continued momentum in installed aircraft and passenger demand in 2015.” Kevin Rogers, CEO of AeroMobile.

• Etihad Airways’ A380 superjumbo makes debut with three-room penthouse cabin – THE RESIDENCE BY ETIHAD – to challenge travel by executive jet

Abu Dhabi | December 27, 2014– Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates today (Saturday), launched its first Airbus A380 aircraft from London Heathrow to its Abu Dhabi hub incorporating the world’s most exclusive commercial airline seat, costing $20,000.

Flight EY12 departed with a full complement of 498 passengers (two in the Residence, nine in First, 70 in Business and 417 in Economy) on schedule at 9.15am and is due to land in the UAE capital at 8.15pm local time tonight. The double decker superjumbo aircraft will operate daily on the London-Abu Dhabi route and by August 2015 on all its three services.

The Etihad Airways A380 is set to change the landscape of commercial aviation with the introduction of its new cabins – including the ultra-luxurious Residence by Etihad.

The Residence by Etihad features a living room, separate ensuite shower room, and bedroom, and as another first in the airline industry, a dedicated Butler. With facilities normally only associated with travel on private jets, the three-room apartment costs a cool $20,000 (£14,000) one way between London and Abu Dhabi, making it the world’s most in commercial aviation. But that is still barely a 10th of the cost of chartering a private jet for the trip. Measuring 125 square feet in total, it is located on the forward upper deck of the A380 and can accommodate either one person or two people travelling together..

Miami-based businessman and aviation enthusiast, Mr. Gino Bertuccio, became the first person to experience the private multi-room cabin on the inbound flight from Abu Dhabi.

And there to support him on the inaugural flight was British national, Georgina Henderson, one of the Etihad Airways Butlers who received specialist training at the Savoy Butler Academy in London prior to the launch of the A380.

Clive Wratten, UK Country Manager for Etihad Airways, said: “London is one of the world’s most competitive aviation markets and it’s significant that we are deploying our first A380 from our capital city.

“We’re immensely proud of all the cabins on board the A380, which take facilities in each class of travel to a new level. The Residence by Etihad™ brings the experience of flying on a private jet into commercial aviation. We’re delivering this unique experience at a fraction of the price of hiring a private aircraft.

“Mr Bertuccio has become the first of an elite group of Etihad Airways guests who will enjoy the world’s most luxurious and exclusive hospitality and service experience in the air.”

A dedicated VIP Concierge team ensured all aspects of Mr. Bertuccio’s experience, including luxury limousine transfers, check-in, and custom menu planning, were handled with the utmost personal attention, dedication and care.

Mr. Bertuccio who runs Ligi Import Corp, has been passionate about flying since a young age. He flew on his first inaugural 25 years ago and has since travelled on 22 inaugural and final flights in premium class cabins. He is an avid collector of airline memorabilia with nearly 2000 model airplanes, as well as albums filled with boarding passes, certificates and photos from past flights.

Mr Bertuccio said: “There were many firsts on this inaugural flight – new amenities, services and other innovations to try. Flying in the Residence by Etihad was a truly unique adventure, the top of luxury. My only wish was that the flight was longer, I didn’t want to get off. It was an amazing experience, a lifetime experience. It looks like a cruise line cabin.”

The addition of the Airbus A380 underlines Etihad Airways’ strong growth performance with the airline set to comfortably pass its total of 11.5 million passengers carried in 2013.

Chris Butler, Director of Airline Business Development for London Heathrow Airport, said: “Etihad Airways has been flying out of London Heathrow since 2004 and we’re delighted the airline chose this airport as its first destination for the A380.

“The airline continues to offer air travellers the very best service – including premium guests using its Terminal 4 lounge – and we look forward to working with the Etihad Airways team as it introduces more A380s onto its network in 2015.”

With the addition of an A380 on the Abu Dhabi – Sydney route, in June 2015, guests will be able to enjoy the luxury of Etihad Airways’ A380 from the UK to Australia.

In addition to the Residence by Etihad™, the A380 also features First Apartments, which are fully private suites with a separate reclining lounge seat and full-length bed, as well as a chilled mini-bar, personal vanity unit and wardrobe.

A total of 70 Business Studios are located on the upper deck of the A380 all offering aisle access and a fully flat bed of up to 80.5 inches long. The upper deck of the A380 is allocated to the premium cabins.

The Economy Smart Seat also debuts on the A380 and has enhanced comfort with the unique ‘fixed wing’ headrest on each seat.

• World’s media gather in UAE capital to witness arrival of flagship aircraft
• Both aircraft carry distinctive new ‘Facets of Abu Dhabi’ livery
• First public viewing of world’s most luxurious cabin – The Residence by Etihad
• New Etihad Airways cabin crew uniform unveiled at fashion show

Abu Dhabi | December 18, 2014– Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has capped an incredible 12 months by unveiling its first Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 aircraft to more than 200 of the world’s media in Abu Dhabi.

The doors to the airline’s two new flagship aircraft – in the distinctive new ‘Facets of Abu Dhabi’ livery – were opened for the first time to reveal the new cabin interiors, which include the ultra-luxurious Residence by Etihad™, the only three-room suite in the sky.

Etihad Airways also unveiled a new cabin crew uniform at a spectacular catwalk fashion show. It’s the first major uniform re-launch since the airline’s formation in 2003 and incorporates the same colours used for the cabin interior and new aircraft livery.

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “As we have done so many times in our short history, we are reshaping the landscape of modern air travel in our own way.

“Today is the culmination of many years of hard work and tremendous endeavour by hundreds of people both in our airline and outside.

“With the launch of these aircraft, we usher in a new era of unparalleled luxury, comfort and service. These innovations represent our vision for the future.”

In addition to the media event at Abu Dhabi airport, Etihad Airways is also hosting an event for travel industry partners and one for the airline’s staff today, ensuring that by the end of the day more than 1,500 people will have toured the two new aircraft.

The fashion show saw 22 Etihad Airways cabin crew showcasing the new uniform which has been designed by Italian couturier, Ettore Bilotta. It combines elegance, comfort and practicality and the colours are derived from the new brand identity.

Bilotta, in collaboration with the airline’s Guest Services and Guest Experience divisions, chose a warm chocolate brown as the base colour for the different uniform variations.

A deep purple colour is added for cabin crew and lounge staff, and a burnt orange accent colour for ground crews and Special Services personnel.

Following today’s events in Abu Dhabi, the A380 and Boeing 787 aircraft will continue test operations before starting commercial flights. The A380 will operate daily to London Heathrow from 27 December and the 787 to Dusseldorf from 1 February 2015.

The entry into commercial service of the A380 will see the introduction of The Residence by Etihad™, a new cabin that has captured the imagination of the air travel industry since it was unveiled in May 2014.

The Residence by Etihad™ features a living room, separate ensuite shower room, and bedroom, and as another first in the airline industry, a dedicated Butler.

Measuring 125 square feet in total, The Residence by Etihad™ is located on the forward upper deck of the A380 and is for single or double occupancy.

The A380 is also the only Etihad Airways aircraft to offer the First Apartment which is a complete living space with a reclining lounge chair and an ottoman, which opens up to become a separate 80.5 inch long fully-flat bed.

The First Suite on the Etihad Airways B787 offers guests an enhanced suite with chilled mini-bar, complete privacy and centre seats which can be joined to create a double bed.

A total of 70 Business Studios are located on the upper deck of the A380, and the B787 has 28 Business Studios, all offering aisle access and a fully flat bed of up to 80.5 inches long.

The Economy Smart Seat also debuts on the A380 and Boeing 787 and has enhanced comfort with the unique ‘fixed wing’ headrest on each seat.

Geneva | October 23, 2014– Qatar Airways’ first A380, which is fully connected, entered revenue service this month. It is operating between Doha and London. The airline’s nine other A380s will also be serviced with both Mobile OnAir and the next generation Internet OnAir.

OnAir’s SwiftBroadband-based mobile phone and Wi-Fi inflight connectivity is now successfully deployed on over half the world’s A380s. This news cements OnAir’s position as the A380 onboard connectivity expert.

“Qatar Airways has provided connectivity for its passengers for nearly five years. Keeping passengers connected everywhere they fly around the world is an integral part of the airline’s exceptional cabin offering,” said Ian Dawkins, CEO of OnAir.

“Qatar Airways is one of the pioneers of inflight connectivity on both long- and short-haul aircraft. Its use of OnAir is evidence that our connectivity is ideal for every aircraft type. And it is obvious that OnAir is the go-to company for A380 connectivity. We are the only service provider with multiple inflight connectivity systems. We can therefore meet the airline’s connectivity requirements across all fleets.”

OnAir is platform agnostic, offering a choice of airborne systems to suit every fleet’s needs. Qatar Airways short-haul fleet of A320-family aircraft has been equipped with the Airbus Standalone GSM system since 2009 when the service was launched, and the B787 fleet uses Thales’ TopConnect hardware.

United Arab Emirates | May 4, 2014 — Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced the first destinations for its first Airbus A380 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.

The Abu Dhabi-based airline’s first A380 will operate commercially to London Heathrow from December 2014. A second A380 will operate on the same route from Q1 2015. By the end of 2015, Etihad Airways will have five of the type in operation, with plans to also introduce A380 operations to both Sydney and New York JFK.

The first Etihad Airways B787-9 will enter commercial service in December 2014, with a second aircraft entering service in January 2015. As with the A380, by the end of 2015, Etihad Airways will have five of the type in operation. The first B787s will initially be deployed on Washington DC, Düsseldorf and Mumbai, with further route announcements to follow.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, said: “The A380 will be used to provide additional seats on existing routes where there is a need for increased capacity, and in particular, high demand for first and business class travel.”

Etihad Airways has a total of 10 A380s on firm order. Four A380s will arrive in 2015, three in 2016 and two in 2017.

Each aircraft is designed to carry 498 passengers in four living spaces on the aircraft. This includes two VIP customers in The Residence by Etihad™, nine customers in the innovative First Class Apartments, 70 customers in the new Business Class Studios, and 417 customers in Economy Class.

Mr. Baumgartner added:  “Today is an historic day in the Etihad Airways story. We are the fastest growing airline in commercial aviation, and by unveiling our plans for this magnificent aircraft and setting new benchmarks in onboard product, service, hospitality and style, we have redefined what flying is all about.”

Etihad Airways also has major plans for the B787 which enters the fleet in Q4 2014.

The mostly composite aircraft will be deployed from December between Abu Dhabi and Düsseldorf, and services to Washington DC and Mumbai will commence in January 2015.  Services to other cities will be confirmed in 2015 as more B787s enter the airline’s aircraft fleet.

The airline has a total of 71 B787s scheduled for delivery between the end of 2014 and 2023, including 41 B787-9s and 30 B787-10s, making it the largest operator of the aircraft type in the world.

Two B787s are scheduled for delivery in Q4 2014 with three due to arrive in 2015, three in 2016 and nine in 2017.  All five initial B787 deliveries will have three living spaces aboard the aircraft, configured to carry 235 customers.

There are eight First Suites in First Class, 28 Business Studios in Business Class and 199 Economy Smart Seats in Economy Class.

Mr. Baumgartner said:  “The B787 is a fantastic addition to our fleet and, similar to the A380, it sets new standards in terms of passenger comfort, product and, crucially, economics.

“Over the coming years this next-generation aircraft will be used by Etihad Airways to launch flights to new destinations, add capacity in existing markets and progressively replace existing, less-efficient aircraft.”

Some of the initial Etihad Airways A380 and B787 flights may be booked from today, online at etihad.com, through the Etihad Airways contact centre, or via travel agents.

• A380 will debut The Residence by Etihad™ – the only three-room cabin in the sky

• New contemporary living spaces on A380 and B787 to transform air travel

• First Apartment, First Suites, Business Studio, and Economy Smart Seat to debut

United Arab Emirates | May 4, 2014 — Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has unveiled the new product and service offering on its Airbus A380 and Boeing B787 Dreamliner aircraft, including The Residence by Etihad™, the world’s most luxurious living space in the air, available only on the airline’s A380 aircraft.

The Residence will be the breath-taking and completely new forward upper-deck cabin on the A380. Accommodating single or double occupancy, it features a living room, separate double bedroom and ensuite shower room. Customers in The Residence will also have a personal butler.

With the launch of these new fleets, the Abu Dhabi-based airline will also redefine and rename its cabin classes.

The A380 will feature revolutionary First Apartments, which are fully private suites with a separate reclining lounge seat and full-length bed, as well as a chilled mini-bar, personal vanity unit and wardrobe.

Etihad Airways has allocated the upper deck of the A380 to its premium cabins.

On the B787, Etihad Airways has designed an enhanced First Suite, adding many new features including a chilled mini-bar.

The Business Studio and Economy Smart Seat will feature on both the A380 and the B787.

Etihad Airways is introducing the latest Panasonic eX3 entertainment system across both fleets, providing more than 750 hours of on-demand entertainment, improved gaming and high definition screens across all cabins.

The system has video touchscreen handsets, offering an additional screen for customers to maximise their entertainment, so they can play games or view a moving flight route map while watching a movie.

Noise cancelling headsets are provided across all cabins, with built-in magnetic audio jacks to ensure the best sound quality.

The A380 aircraft will have full mobile and Wi-Fi service while the B787 will be equipped with Wi-Fi.

The new cabins and service offering follow the airline’s pledge to transform air travel and make every customer journey a remarkable one.

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “These new living spaces will raise inflight product and service standards to their highest level yet in commercial aviation and alter air travellers’ expectations of inflight comfort and luxury forever.

“Etihad Airways’ A380 and B787 will deliver the most advanced airline cabins in the industry, while meeting all weight, range and cost targets at our desired seat count. This will allow us to offer products unparalleled in quality and style, yet at competitive prices across all three cabins.”

Believing that no single design agency could deliver its vision for the new cabins, Etihad Airways established in 2008 the Etihad Design Consortium (EDC) which brought together three leading British design companies, Acumen, Factorydesign and Honour Branding to develop innovative cabin and seat designs for the new fleets.

The EDC collaborated with Promise Communispace, a leading agency, to launch comprehensive consumer research and workshops in London, Abu Dhabi, Sydney, and New York, with the goal of understanding what makes a ‘perfect flight’ and asking consumers to help design the perfect airline.

Eighty per cent of the new product offering is a direct result of the feedback and information garnered from these workshops.

Etihad Airways’ design vision was to bring the individuality and exclusivity of a luxury boutique hotel experience to the sky in a way that embraced Arabian modernism, an aesthetic that combines the traditions of the Middle East with contemporary design.

The Residence by Etihad

The Residence, which is certified by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for single or double occupancy, offers levels of luxury and total privacy normally found only on private jets.

Each Etihad Airways A380 will offer a boutique version of The Residence with different colour palettes, table marquetry and custom carpets.

Customers in The Residence will have the services of a personal butler throughout their flight. These fully trained service professionals will receive specialist training at the Savoy Butler Academy in London.

They will also have a dedicated VIP travel concierge team who will ensure every detail of their travel experience, including ground transport, cuisine, and amenities, are tailored to their requirements.

First Apartments

Etihad Airways will redefine first class and set a remarkable new industry standard with the launch of the First Apartment on the A380.

Nine First Apartments will be installed on the upper deck in a 1-1 configuration to create the only single aisle first class cabin in the industry.

Each First Apartment, which has a 64 inch high sliding door, includes a reclining armchair and a full-length ottoman, both upholstered by the prestigious Italian suppliers of Ferrari’s interiors, Poltrona Frau. The ottoman transforms into a separate 80 inch long fully flatbed.

The First Apartment, which also includes features such as a chilled mini-bar, a personal vanity unit and a swivelling TV monitor for viewing from either the seat or the bed, has a 74 per cent larger footprint than the airline’s current award-winning first class suites.

A fully equipped shower room is available on the A380 for exclusive use by first class customers.

First Suites

On the B787, Etihad Airways has designed an enhanced First Suite with many new features. The eight First Suites in a 1-2-1 configuration along a curved aisle, another first in commercial aviation.

Each completely private First Suite has a large seat and ottoman, both upholstered by Poltrona Frau, which converts into an 80.5 inch long full-flat bed.

On the centre seats, the armrests retract and the suites can be joined to create a ‘double’ bed. Other features include a chilled mini-bar and a 24 inch TV monitor.

Business Studios

On both the A380 and the B787, Etihad Airways will launch its new Business Studios which provide 20 per cent more personal space than the airline’s current business class seat.

Configured 1-2-1 in a forward and aft ‘dovetail’, the Business Studios all have aisle access and the seat converts into a fully flat bed of up to 80.5 inches long.

With its privacy, ample storage and surface space, the Business Studio has been designed with the diverse needs of the premium business or leisure traveller firmly in mind.

The Lobby

On the Airbus A380, First and Business Class guests will be able to relax in The Lobby which is a serviced lounge and bar area located between the first and business cabins.

Providing a semi-circular leather sofa, a marquetry table and a large TV screen, The Lobby is designed for relaxing and socialising.

The TV has a USB connection so it can be used for sharing content or it can also be set to the airline’s live news and sport TV channels..

Economy Smart Seat

New Economy Smart Seat will offer an ergonomic fixed-wing headrest, to give customers a place to rest their head for added comfort and relaxation.

The seat also has a lumbar support feature, allowing customers to adjust their seat comfort, and an 11 inch personal monitor screen, with all the IFE peripherals conveniently set into the seatback in front.

The latest Panasonic eX3 personal entertainment system, of which Etihad Airways is a launch customer, is installed across all cabins

Cabin Entrances

A key design objective for Etihad Airways was to transform the boarding experience making it more akin to stepping into the lobby of a boutique hotel.

In all entry-ways in both aircraft and in all cabins, the galley equipment is concealed behind custom Arabic fretwork screens and blinds, while the trolleys are covered by elegant wood-finish doors, setting a stylish and welcoming environment for all customers.

Importantly for the airline’s Muslim customers, Etihad Airways has developed prayer areas which can be curtained off for privacy and are equipped with a real-time electronic Qibla-finder showing the exact direction of Mecca based on the aircraft’s geographical position.

In the premium class boarding areas, Etihad Airways will collaborate with cultural institutions in the UAE to exhibit artwork and artefacts in display cabinets installed throughout. Items from the Etihad Airways duty free catalogue will also be displayed.

With the launch of these new aircraft, Etihad Airways will update its dining equipment, amenities and soft furnishings across its entire fleet.

To view images and video of the new cabins, please click on the following links:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UEhl8GyXfBY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqZZHT5dvMU

• OnAir only provider with authorization from Thai authorities

Geneva | February 17, 2014– Thai Airways International (THAI) is launching THAI Sky Connect, which adds inflight connectivity to passenger inflight experience on the airline’s Airbus A330-300 and Airbus A380-800 aircraft. The connectivity is provided by OnAir.

From mid-February, passengers flying on THAI’s A380s and dedicated A330 flights will be able to log on to the on-board Wi-Fi product, Internet OnAir. It works exactly as a Wi-Fi hotspot on the ground. It is simply a case of entering credit card details, then surfing the Internet, checking emails and updating social media. It is expected that OnAir’s inflight GSM product, Mobile OnAir, will also be available on THAI flights, once the regulatory framework has been determined.

The launch of THAI Sky Connect is possible thanks to THAI being the first airline approved by the National Broadcasting Telecommunications Commission to provide inflight connectivity in Thailand’s airspace. OnAir is the only provider authorized to deliver inflight Wi-Fi services to airlines in Thailand.

“THAI is pleased to be launching THAI Sky Connect, an inflight WiFi product and service that adds to passenger inflight comfort and convenience on flights operated with Airbus A330-300 and Airbus A380-800 aircraft in all classes of service,” said Mr. Chokchai Panyayong, THAI Senior Executive Vice President, Commercial Department, and Acting President.  “THAI Sky Connect is offered to THAI passengers on A330-300 and A380-800 aircraft at package rates for laptop/iPad and smartphone usage, with OnAir as the Wi-Fi service provider. This is a positive step forward to bring internet connectivity and modern technology directly to passengers’ fingertips. THAI is pleased to introduce Wi-Fi service on board its flights, which will further improve passengers’ inflight entertainment experience and make travel with THAI even more enjoyable.”

THAI is one of three airlines currently operating OnAir connectivity on the A380; all three also use Inmarsat’s SwiftBroadband satellite network. Internet OnAir and Mobile OnAir are the only connectivity products currently flying on more than 50 A380s every day.

OnAir has regulatory authorizations from over 100 countries, more than any other inflight connectivity service provider. Combined with its roaming agreements with over 350 mobile network operators, OnAir provides consistent coverage on all the major routes across the world.

“OnAir has a very strong track record in obtaining regulatory approvals – it is one of the key areas in which we stand apart from other providers,” said Ian Dawkins, CEO of OnAir. “We are firmly committed to delivering consistent coverage so passengers can be connected with their family, friends and colleagues throughout the flight, wherever they are in the world.”

THAI is the 20^th airline to operate OnAir connectivity and the seventh in Asia. Internet OnAir and Mobile OnAir are widely available across the world and are used by over four and a half million passengers each year.

Lake Forest, CA | November 12, 2013– Panasonic Avionics Corporation (Panasonic) and Lufthansa Technik have won the right to retro-fit all in-service A380s with Panasonic’s advanced Global Communications Services.

The joint agreement allows in-service A380s to be equipped and certified with Panasonic’s broadband connectivity and mobile phone services. It is the first time that Airbus has allowed this type of communications hardware to be retrofitted onto this unique airframe type.

With Panasonic’s Global Communications Services, passengers will be able to access the internet, log into their favorite social networks and watch live, global television content with Panasonic’s eXTV service, which includes BBC World News, BBC Arabic, CNBC, CNN International, NHK World, Euronews, and IMG Media’s Sport 24. They will also be able to use their mobile phones to send and receive phone calls or text messages and to use GPRS services.

The first customer will be Lufthansa, with the installation being undertaken by Lufthansa Technik.

David Bruner, Vice President for Global Communications Services at Panasonic Avionics, said: “With this agreement we have made great progress with Lufthansa Technik towards providing this very important service to our airline customers and their passengers. We can now provide our broadband services on every aircraft type, which has always been our goal.”

Bernd Freckmann, Vice President, Base Maintenance Services for Lufthansa Technik, said: “We are very pleased to partner with Panasonic Avionics as they have an established wide A380 Customer base of high-quality in-flight entertainment and communications services.”

With installations beginning in 2014, the developed platform complies with current manufacturer and industry standards allowing full commonality with a concurrent line fit installation.

Irivine, CA and Neuilly-Sur-Seine, France | July 25, 2013– Thales, leader in in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) systems is providing the in-flight entertainment systems on British Airways’ eagerly awaited Airbus A380 and Boeing 787.

The airline took delivery into the UK of its first two 787s last month, followed by its first A380 on 4 July. In 2008 British Airways agreed on a deal to purchase the Thales TopSeries In-Flight Entertainment System for its new delivery and next generation aircraft.

These new aircraft feature the TopSeries System, an award winning in-flight entertainment product that offers passengers the ultimate in-flight experience. From the comfort of their own seat passengers will be able to enjoy the latest films, catch up with the latest TV programmes, keep up-to date with breaking news, play games, listen to music, radio, podcasts and much more. Passengers can also keep up-to-date with their journey using Thales’ advanced 3D moving map application that includes a full featured globe with satellite imagery and full-motion 3D view of the aircraft. Arrival and flight connections information is also available.

The aircraft will be maintained from the Thales London Heathrow maintenance hub, which today already provides a service to 31 aircraft in the British Airways fleet.

“Thales is looking forward to more passengers being able to experience in-flight entertainment products and services fitting of the new state-of-the art aircraft. We are excited to be a part of this important milestone for British Airways and welcome the additional aircraft to our maintenance and service hub, over the next four years” said Andrew Musgrave, Thales Vice President, In-Flight Entertainment UK and Ireland.

– Sixth aircraft for Malaysia Airlines handed over in Toulouse

Blagnac Cedex, France | March 14, 2013– Malaysia Airlines (MAS) and Airbus together marked a major achievement, with the hand-over of the 100th A380 to MAS at Airbus’ Henri Ziegler Delivery Centre in Toulouse, France. The aircraft is the sixth A380 for MAS.

“We are delighted that our 100th A380 delivery is to Malaysia Airlines as this gives us an early glimpse into the future shape of aviation,” said Fabrice Brégier, Airbus President and CEO. “We see a growing demand from dynamic, competitive airlines such as MAS for larger aircraft, with many markets and routes, and in particular in the fast developing Asia-Pacific region, being ideally suited to A380s.”

Now in its sixth year of commercial service, the A380 is flying with nine world class airlines. To date, the worldwide fleet has carried some 36 million passengers in 100,000 flights. Previous generation Very Large Aircraft (VLA 400 seats and above) would have required 140,000 flights. This reduction in flights brings essential relief to airport-congestion and the environment. The corresponding saving of 5.7 million tonnes of CO2, demonstrates the A380 generates more revenue whilst minimising emissions and noise.

The A380 fleet performs over 140 flights per day and carries over one and a half million people each month. Passengers can hop on board one of the A380s which are either taking off or landing every six minutes at one of the 32 international airports where it operates to date. On top of these, more than 50 other airports are getting prepared to accommodate the A380 and answer the airlines’ need for more A380 destinations.

Over the next 20 years, more than 1,700 VLA such as the A380 will have been delivered. Asia Pacific leads demand (45 percent) for these high capacity aircraft, followed by the Middle East (23 percent) and Europe (19 percent).

Typically seating 525 passengers in three classes, the aircraft is capable of flying 8,500 nautical miles or 15,700 kilometres non-stop, carrying more people at lower cost and with less impact on the environment. The spacious, quiet cabin and smooth ride have made the A380 a firm favourite with passengers, resulting in higher load factors wherever it flies.

Since 2006 the A380 has registered repeat orders by satisfied customers every year, bringing the total order book to date to 262 from 20 customers.

– Medical equipment for Bangkok Hospital and €50,000 donation for children’s home

December 3, 2012– The Airbus Corporate Foundation and Aviation Sans Frontières have transported medical equipment and supplies to Thailand from Toulouse, France, aboard the delivery flight of Thai Airways International (THAI)’s most recently delivered A380. The aircraft, which landed on Friday 30th November in Bangkok, is the second to be delivered out of THAI’s total order for six A380s.

In addition to the medical equipment, the Airbus Foundation also provided a monetary donation of €50,000 to the Thai Red Cross as a contribution for the support of its children’s home in Bangkok.

The medical equipment delivered is destined for the Veterans General Hospital in Bangkok and is the result of a donation from the Toulouse University Hospital in France and a collection of some small medical equipment by the Banque Humanitaire du Pallet and Association Carinitos. It includes respirators, electrocardiograph (ECG) monitors, plus an extensive range of medical aid kits.

Chokchai Panyayong, THAI Senior Executive Vice President, said: “We are proud to have been able to use this special delivery flight in such a meaningful way. The generous donation received from the Airbus Foundation and the medical goods supplied by Aviation Sans Frontières will be very much appreciated by the beneficiaries here in Thailand, both of which are closely supported by THAI.”

Andrea Debbané, Executive Director of the Airbus Foundation, said: “The Airbus Foundation is pleased to have been able to work with THAI on this goodwill flight. The occasion of the second A380 delivery offered a perfect opportunity to help two deserving causes in Thailand. We would like to thank THAI and all our partners involved in this project.”

In recent years, Airbus has built up a global network of airlines and relief organisations to support international humanitarian causes. Delivery flights of new to be delivered aircraft have been used on numerous occasions to transport goods to destinations in need all over the world. This goodwill flight is the first involving the delivery of an A380.

The Airbus Corporate Foundation was created to facilitate charitable activities worldwide within an international network of employees and partners. The Airbus Corporate Foundation started its operation on 1st December, 2008. The organisation focuses its support on three themes: humanitarian and community support, youth development and the environment.

Since its launch in December 2008, the Airbus Corporate Foundation has facilitated some 30 relief or goodwill flights to numerous destinations all over the globe.