Airframer expects new freighter’s first sortie to take place on 29 September.
Airbus has revealed that it intends to conduct the first flight of its A350 freighter on 29 September.
This would align with the airframer’s previous indications that it was aiming for a third-quarter maiden flight for the twinjet cargo aircraft.
Airbus plans to fly the initial test aircraft, MSN700, from Toulouse although this is still subjected to weather conditions.
Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, MSN700 recently emerged in its distinctive livery and has been undergoing a series of ground tests, including rejected take-off.
Its first sortie will focus on opening the flight envelope for the variant, and assessing its aerodynamic and handling characteristics.
Pilots have already carried out simulator work ahead of the flight.
Airbus will use a second test airframe, MSN701, to carry out detailed system tests and customer demonstrations.
It plans to secure A350F certification and entry into service before the end of next year. The jet will have a payload capability of 111t, and range of up to 4,700nm (8,700km).
The post Airbus fixes provisional date for A350F’s maiden flight first appeared on FlightGlobal.