Airbus is privately showing the first mock up of its new A350 XWB cabin.
The aircraft will feature the widest cross-section passenger jet in the world when it enters service – probably in 2013.
Bob Lange, Airbus’ head of aircraft interiors cabin marketing says: “We have had a lot of interest from airlines already and many people are keen to see the new cabin for themselves.”
Unfortunately at this stage Airbus is only showing the mock-up to specially invited guests.
Those that are fortunate enough to get inside will see that it features straight side walls, which provide extra room at head and shoulder level. In addition, the large, pivoting overhead bins enable passengers to store their luggage close to their seats. There are no seats in the mock-up allowing for the advances that will be made in technology before the aircraft flies.
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| Bob Lange, keen to show off the flexible cabin |
Speaking at yesterday’s press conference Rainer von Borstel, Airbus Germany’s senior vp cabin & cargo, said the aircraft was highly flexible and will give operator’s opportunities to reconfigure the aircraft overnight.”
Many exhibitors at the show are keenly vying for work on the new aircraft.
One who enjoyed success yesterday was B/E, selected to supply next generation passenger and crew oxygen systems.
The award is initially valued at more than EUR 95.6 million ($125 million).
The A350 will use B/E’s Pulse system designed especially for the aircraft.
"We are extremely pleased to be named by Airbus as the program supplier of oxygen systems for their new A350 XWB aircraft. Our leading-edge oxygen technology supports our objectives for lower weight and flexible systems to provide the enhanced operating economics required by Airbus and the airlines,” says Amin J. Khoury, B/E’s chairman and chief executive.
More news, pictures and videos from Aircraft interiors EXPO Hamburg 2008....
Source: Flight Daily News
