Beluga XL: Airbus's Ascend towards Efficient Oversized Air Cargo Transport

Airbus announced the first flight of the final aircraft in its Beluga XL fleet, a major production milestone.

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The new Airbus A330-200-based Beluga XL fleet of six will replace the maxed-out Beluga ST fleet.

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The Beluga XL, launched in 2014, began service in 2020 after earning EASA type certification.

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Airbus plans to fully replace the Beluga ST fleet with Beluga XL aircraft by the end of 2023.

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The Beluga XL, larger than its predecessor, boosts transport capacity by 30%, accommodating two A350 wings.

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With a 51-tonne payload and 4,000 km range, the Beluga XL is redefining oversized air cargo transport.

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The Beluga XL was developed to handle larger parts like two A350 wings, an upgrade over the original Beluga.

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The final Beluga XL, Beluga XL 6, had a majestic two-hour forty-minute maiden flight from Toulouse.

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The launch of the sixth Beluga XL signals Airbus's commitment to advancing oversized air cargo transport.

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