On June 2, Airbus started Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines that equip the first A350 XWB (MSN1) aircraft. The model is ready to make the first flight in the history of A350 XWB. Everything went according to plan, including starting the Auxiliary Power Unit (APU). I expect to see this model at the Paris Air Show 2013, a large aeronautical fair that will take place during the 17-23 June 2013.
The Airbus A350 XWB is a twin-engine, ultra-modern, wide-body, long-haul and direct competitor for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Will be sold in 3 variants: Airbus A350-800 XWB, Airbus A350-900 XWB and Airbus A350-1000 XWB. So far, 616 aircraft have been pre-ordered by 34 airline operators. The launch customer for A350 XWB is Qatar Airways, which has ordered 80 units.
Airbus will test A350 XWB aircraft by the end of the year 2013, following which 2014 will also make the first deliveries. The manufacturer promises that the new A350 XWB will consume up to 25% less fuel compared to similar models on the market.