NEW YORK,
March 20 /PRNewswire/ -- The
Airbus A380 landed in the U.S. for
the first time on
Monday, March 19, 2007 with dual landings of two aircraft --
one at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and one at
Los
Angeles International Airport (LAX). With passenger traffic expected to
nearly triple over the next 20 years, the
Airbus A380 will be the largest
passenger aircraft on the market. It was designed through a collaborative
process with airline customers and 60 airports around the world to ensure
compatibility.
(See video from Airbus at:
http://media.medialink.com/WebNR.aspx?story=33153)
The A380's ability to carry more passengers and its faster ground
turnaround times will help ease airport congestion by transporting more people
on fewer aircraft. It will provide passengers on major long-haul routes with
a new way of flying, setting the standards for the 21st century. The
aircraft's significantly reduced noise and emissions levels will help to
minimize its effects on the environment. Its new generation engines and
superb aerodynamic performance means that the A380 will not only comply with
today's noise limits, but will be significantly quieter than its rival,
producing only half as much noise on takeoff and landing.
Its unprecedented level of composites and other lightweight materials
reduce its weight, helping to make it a highly fuel-efficient aircraft,
offering mileage equal to about 79 miles per gallon per passenger. The A380
Family seats an average of 555 people in three classes on two widebody decks,
offering airlines unequalled flexibility in the cabin to feature virtually
unlimited passenger amenities. Delivery of the first A380 is slated for
October 2007 to Singapore Airlines. More than 70 airports -- including major
hubs like New York City, Los Angeles, Frankfurt, Paris and London -- will be
ready for A380 operations by 2011.
Registered journalists can access video, audio, text, graphics and photos
for free and unrestricted use at http://media.medialink.com.
03DC07-0135
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