UPDATE – Qantas will have to wait another 10 months before it takes delivery of the aircraft, but the A350-1000ULR for Project Sunrise has completed its maiden flight on June 2. With just 12 on order, this variant remains a niche aircraft on which Airbus will likely struggle to recoup the investments.
The first -1000ULR with manufacturing number MSN707 took off from Toulouse Blagnac at 12.30 am sharp for a 3 hours 43 minutes test flight over Southwest France. Over the Gulf of Biscay off the coast of Bordeaux, the aircraft climbed to FL410 and flew several circuits before returning to Toulouse.
MSN707 with registration F-WULR is fitted with special test equipment in the empty cabin that will be removed after the two-month certification period. The aircraft will then be modified and delivered to Qantas. The first 1000ULR to join the carrier will actually be the second airframe MSN814 that is currently in final assembly in Toulouse.
Unlock the Full AirInsight Analysis & KPI Models
Get instant access to proprietary fleet valuation models, production & delivery forecasts, engine cost analytics, and the complete subscriber archive.
Not ready for a paid pass?
Create a free account
to access executive summaries and public market updates.
