Airbus has formally introduced a new higher-weight variant of the A350-1000, taking the maximum take-off weight to 316t.
The airframer had previously hinted, a year ago, that two more weight variants – a 311t and a 316t version – were under consideration.
Airbus subsequently confirmed the 311t variant, known as WV001, but the European Aviation Safety Agency has newly updated its certification documentation to feature a 316t variant.
The A350-1000, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, was originally approved with a maximum take-off weight of 308t.
EASA lists the 316t variant, designated WV002, as having the same maximum landing weight and maximum zero-fuel weight as WV001, respectively 236t and 223t.
These figures also apply to another variant, WV004, which retains the original 308t MTOW, the safety authority's documentation shows.
Airbus has also disclosed two other lighter-weight options for the -1000 with MTOWs of 260t and 270t.
Qatar Airways took delivery of the first -1000 on 16 February this year. Airbus has total orders for 168 A350-1000s which typically seat 369 passengers.
Source: Cirium Dashboard
