Aircraft
Airbus Maps Out Future for A330
Asian operators of the Airbus A330, such as Philippines-based Cebu Air, have used their aircraft to carry more than 400 passengers, prompting the manufacturer to consider a new "regional" variant to operate at a lower weight. (Photo: Airbus)
Asian operators of the Airbus A330, such as Philippines-based Cebu Air, have used their aircraft to carry more than 400 passengers, prompting the manufacturer to consider a new "regional" variant to operate at a lower weight. (Photo: Airbus)

As Airbus handed over the 1,000th A330 to Cathay Pacific Airways last Friday, it confirmed plans to accelerate introduction of the 242-metric-ton maximum takeoff weight model and to offer a new, lower operating weight, shorter-range “regional” variant. The twin-aisle twinjet has enjoyed a renaissance in recent years, partly benefitting from Boeing 787 delays and also, Airbus officials believe, from carriers reconsidering its operating economics against those of the new U.S. design. “We've sold more A330s since the 787 was launched than before,” said Airbus COO for customers John Leahy.