Maximum take-off weight increases under evaluation for twinjet could help it compete with Boeing 777-200ER
Airbus is studying an extended-range version of the A350 to increase its competitiveness against the Boeing 777-200ER, as it firms up the design of the baseline -800 and -900 versions.
The extended-range study, believed to be dubbed "A350-1000", builds on the redefined -800/900 pairing. Industry sources say Airbus is studying potential gross-weight increases that would exploit the A350's redesigned landing gear, enabling higher gross weights without needing an A340-style centre gear unit.
Maximum take-off weight increases of 5t to 30t beyond the existing 245t are being evaluated, with the "sweet spot" believed to be around 260t. Airbus confirms it is "protecting" the structure for further weight growth by building in additional margin and provision for higher MTOWs.
The current -800/900 versions will be equipped with General Electric GEnx engines rated at 63,000-75,000lb thrust (280-334kN), and Airbus is in talks with Rolls-Royce about offering the aircraft with a version of the 787's Trent 1000. The A350-1000 study would require engines with thrust above 75,000lb, so it would need a new or modified engine, the existing powerplants being unsuitable without major redesign.
Although the increased weight could be applied to either A350 version to boost range, the larger 13,900km (7,500nm)-capable, 300-seat -900 version is the focus of the Airbus study. It is targeting the 777-200ER market with the A350-900 and this greater weight would enable it to close the 380km range gap with the Boeing aircraft.
GUY NORRIS/LOS ANGELES & MAX KINGSLEY-JONES/LONDON
Source: Flight International
