From the point of view of the aviation enthusiast, it was an awesome sight. From the point of view of the rational aviation journalist, it was a sobering backdrop to a growing debate about the future of an aircraft type which first entered line service with Singapore Airlines 12 years ago with an economic promise
Airbus chief executive Tom Enders says the decision to end production of the A380 by 2021 is a painful one for everyone involved in the program.
This feature from Geofrey Thomas from the October 2008 edition of Australian Aviation looks at Emirates introducing Airbus A380 into service.
Qantas says it has cancelled its outstanding order for eight A380s that has been on the books since 2006 after discussions with Airbus.
Airbus is backing the creation of a electric aircraft race by signing on as a partner of Air Race E that is due to launch in 2020.
Airbus says its A330-900 widebody has received regulatory approval to operate up to 285 minutes from a suitable landing field. The extended twin engine aircraft operations (ETOPS) certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) means the A330-900 can be flown on a route that keeps it within four hours and 45 minutes flying time
