An Airbus A350-900, destined for Japan Airlines (JAL) fleet, has completed its maiden flight. The aircraft is the first one ever produced by Airbus for the airline, according to the Toulouse-based manufacturer.
The A350 XWB is now to enter the final phase of production, including cabin completion, as well as further ground and flight tests leading to customer acceptance and delivery, according to Airbus statement on May 17, 2019.
In April 2019, Japanese authorities have issued type certification for the Airbus A350 XWB, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, opening doors for JAL to receive first deliveries. Airbus has previously stated they are scheduled “in the middle of 2019”.
The airline placed 18 A350-900s and 13 A350-1000s firm order with Airbus in 2013.
JAL’s A350 XWB fleet will enter service on major domestic routes starting with its Haneda – Fukuoka route from September.
A350XWB are due to replace older widebody aircraft within the Japanese carrier fleet – a position currently strongly occupied by Boeing aircraft. JAL operates an all-Boeing fleet of 167 aircraft, 117 of which are widebodies: Dreamliners, 777s and 767s.