Airbus announces lower weight A330 for regional and domestic operations

Airbus announced (25-Sep-2013) a new lower weight variant of its A330-300 widebody aircraft that is optimised for use on domestic and regional routes in high growth markets with large populations and concentrated traffic flows. China will be one of the most important markets for this new version of the aircraft. Airbus president and CEO Fabrice Bregier said, "The new lower weight A330-300 variant specially designed for regional and domestic use is Airbus' solution for markets with large populations and fast growing, concentrated air traffic flows. Operators of the new A330-300 variant will benefit from a proven, mature and reliable aircraft that brings relief to limited airspace, airport congestion and pilot shortage. We are announcing the new A330-300 lower weight variant today in China because here we see strong pent-up demand for efficient and reliable widebody aircraft connecting mega cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu and Guangzhou." Compared to current A330-300 variants that are adapted to longer-range missions of up to 6100 nautical miles (nm), the new A330-300 regional and domestic variant will be optimised to seat up to around 400 passengers in Airbus' 18 inches wide economy seat comfort on missions up to 3000nm and offer significant cost savings through a reduced operational weight of around 200 tonnes. The reduction in fuel burn per seat and maintenance costs will result in an overall cost reduction by up to 15% compared with the current long-range A330-300 variants. In addition, the new A330-300 variant will benefit from the latest A350 XWB and A380 technologies. These include cockpit functionalities such as dual head-up display and the latest navigational systems. The cabin will also be future proofed with innovations such as slimline light-weight seats, high broadband WiFi connectivity throughout, the newest IFE allowing HD TV, LED lighting and full colour mood lighting. [more - original PR]