A320neo programme starts first major-component assembly

Airbus announced (08-Nov-2013) it has completed assembly of the engine pylon for the first A320neo. The pylon is the first major airframe component assembly to take place for the A320neo programme. In parallel with this pylon construction, other major A320neo components and subassemblies will shortly be taking shape in factories across various countries. The centre wing-box will soon arrive from Nantes to be integrated in the fuselage, and also the rear fuselage will begin assembly there. In St Nazaire, the forward fuselage will start assembly in Jan-2014. Overall progress on the first A320neo is well on track for aircraft final assembly to start in spring 2014, followed by the aircraft making its first flight next autumn. [more - original PR]