FAA approves A350 XWB for ‘beyond 180 minutes’ ETOPS

US FAA granted (02-May-2016) approval to the A350-900 for ETOPS (Extended-range Twin engine aircraft Operations) 'beyond 180 minutes' diversion time. This approval means that when the first FAA-affiliated operators start to take delivery of their A350s in 2017 they will be able to serve new direct non-limiting routings, compared with a standard 180 minute ETOPS diversion time. It also means that now the A350 XWB is approved by both EASA and the FAA for beyond 180 minutes ETOPS.

• The FAA approval, which includes 'ETOPS 180min' in the basic specification, also includes provisions for up to 'ETOPS 300min' - corresponding to a maximum diversion distance of 2000nm at one-engine-inoperative speed under standard atmospheric conditions. The ETOPS 300min option will, in particular, facilitate more efficient transoceanic routes across the North and Mid-Pacific - such as from Southeast Asia to US, and Australasia to the US;
• Later in 2016, once the type accumulates additional in-service experience, it will be granted a further provision for 'ETOPS 370min' from the FAA, which will extend the maximum diversion distance up to 2500nm;
• A350 operators flying on existing routes (currently flown with up to 180 minute diversion time) will be able to traverse straighter more fuel efficient flight paths, while also allowing access to more en-route diversion airports if needed. [more - original PR]