1st BelugaXL Transporter

The first structurally complete airframe for the new BelugaXL has rolled out from the assembly hangar in Toulouse. Once operational, a fleet of these next-generation airlifters will be used to transport completed sections of Airbus aircraft among the company’s European production sites and to its final assembly lines in France, Germany and Spain. While the first structurally complete BelugaXL moves into its testing phase, the second A330 to be converted into a BelugaXL arrived on schedule in Toulouse to begin its integration process.The BelugaXLprogramme was launched in November 2014 to address Airbus’ increasing transport requirements. At six metres longer, one metre wider and with a payload lifting capacity six tonnes greater than the BelugaST transporter version it is replacing, the BelugaXL will be able to transport both wings of the A350 XWB jetliner together instead of the single wing currently accommodated on the BelugaST. In all, five BelugaXLs are scheduled to enter service for Airbus’ airlift requirements.