Airbus Launches Ultra-Long Range A350-900

摘要

Singapore Airlines has chosen Airbus' newly launched Ultra-Long Range version of the A350-900 for non-stop flights to the US. An amendment has been made to the carrier's existing order for 63 A350-900s, with seven of the aircraft now switched to the Ultra-Long Range variant. Singapore has also placed an additional order for four A350-900S, taking its firm commitments for the type to 67. Designated the A350-900ULR, the aircraft includes a modified fuel system to boost the fuel-carrying capacity, an increase in maximum take-off weight, plus aerodynamic improvements. This will enable Singapore Airlines to reintroduce non-stop services to the US West Coast and New York. The airline previously used the four-engine A340-500 but ended the flights in 2013 as they were not profitable. At 8,700nm (16,112km), the New York service is the world's longest commercial passenger route, with a flight time of up to 19 hours.