Airbus is to launch a contest later this year to select the manufacturer of the composite wing panels for its future A350 airliner, a production decision on which is expected around mid-year.
Airbus UK hopes to secure the work for its Filton and Broughton plants, although final wing assembly will take place at the latter site regardless of the manufacturer selection, says Brian Fleet, head of the company's wing centre of excellence. Airbus expects the A350 to enter service in early 2010, and Fleet says Broughton will deliver its first wing set for the new aircraft in 2008.
A product launch for the A350 is anticipated around June's Paris air show, with the selection of a composite wing panel producer expected to take a further three to four months. "Everyone wants to be on board," says Fleet. "Whoever does the composite wing skins will have the [technology] lead." Germany and Spain are also understood to be interested in securing the composite production work.
CRAIG HOYLE BROUGHTON
Source: Flight International
