Engines
Airbus Aims To Reduce A340 Operating Costs
Airbus plans to recertify the A340-600 to carry 475 passengers. (Photo: Airbus)
Airbus plans to recertify the A340-600 to carry 475 passengers. (Photo: Airbus)

Aiming to reduce exposure to potential residual-value guarantee (RVG) claims for the A340 twin-aisle quad-jet, Airbus plans to recertify the aircraft to carry 475 passengers, while Rolls-Royce works to improve the type’s engine efficiency and maintenance costs. The European manufacturer told a stakeholders’ forum on December 4 that with increased capacity and lower maintenance charges and ownership costs, the A340-600 can compete against the Boeing 777-200ER and -300ER and replace larger 747-400s. Airbus expects airworthiness approval by the beginning of 2015, according to Airbus A340 asset-management vice president Andreas Hermann.