Airbus has already started to produce the first elements of the “sharklet” wingtips for incorporation on wings for standard A320 aircraft that are expected to enter service in about 18 months’ time, during the fourth quarter of 2012. It also has begun to convert the original A320 (MSN 0001), including installation of flight-test instruments, to act as a test bed. Sharklets will then be introduced progressively during 2013 on other members of the single-aisle family in the following order: A319, A321, A318.
Introduction of sharklets will improve A320 takeoff performance in terms of payload by approximately 6,600 pounds, according to Airbus customer chief operating officer John Leahy. This enhancement is seen as especially valuable when operating from runways with obstacle-clearance and secondary-segment climb limitations. Leahy cited airports such as Canberra, Chicago (Midway), Kathmandu and Quito as having such considerations for A320 operators.
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