The final series of ground-based tests on Airbus Industrie's A330-200 has begun in Toulouse, leading to its first flight in mid-August.
The A330-200, which will seat 253 passengers in a standard three-class layout, is the newest member of the growing A330/A340 family.
A comprehensive 630h flight-test programme is planned, leading to certification of the General Electric CF6-8031 powered A330-200 in April next year.
The flight trials include testing of seven different A330-200s with the other two engine types on offer - the Pratt & Whitney PW4000 and Rolls-Royce Trent 700 - and will continue until the end of 1998.
Source: Flight Daily News
