China Eastern Airlines’ first A350 XWB performs maiden flight

The first A350-900 for China Eastern Airlines has performed its maiden flight in Toulouse, France. The aircraft will now enter the final phase of production, ground checks and test flights before being prepared for delivery in the coming weeks. The airline has 20 A350-900s on order.

China Eastern Airlines currently operates an Airbus fleet of 363 aircraft, including 305 A320 Family aircraft and 58 A330 Family aircraft.

Bringing new levels of efficiency and comfort in the long range market, the A350 Family is especially well suited to the needs of Asia-Pacific airlines. To date, A350 Family firm orders from carriers in the region represent over a third of total sales for the type.

The A350 XWB is an all new family of mid-size wide-body long-haul airliners shaping the future of air travel. It features the latest aerodynamic design, carbon fibre fuselage and wings, plus new fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines. Together, these latest technologies translate into unrivalled levels of operational efficiency, with a 25 per cent reduction in fuel burn and emissions, and significantly lower maintenance costs. The A350 XWB features an Airspace cabin which, on top of the aircraft spaciousness and quietness, provides better ambience, design and services, contributing to superior levels of comfort and well-being, and setting new standards in terms of flight experience for all passengers.

To date, Airbus has recorded a total of 890 firm orders for the A350 XWB from 46 customers worldwide, already making it one of the most successful widebody aircraft ever.