Airbus
has improved the A330-300 and A330-200 even further by providing
operators both with a 242 metric tonne maximum take-off weight
(MTOW)capability
and, for the
larger A330-300, an increased fuel capacity option.These enhancements
build on the capability announced
earlier this year for an increased 240 tonne MTOW, and will be
available for operators in 2015.
The
new take-off weight capability combined with the fuel capacity
increase enables operators of these new A330-300s to carry additional
payload on longer missions. Overall, the full payload range now
increases by around 500nm over today’s 235 tonne A330-300, and by
around 350nm over today’s 238 tonne A330-200.
The
A330-300’s optional fuel capacity increase will be achieved by
activating the centre wing tank for the first time on this model. The
centre tank and its associated systems have always been present as
standard on its longer-range sibling – the A330-200. The additional
fuel capacity for the A330-300 allows operators to fly new longer
distance routes, such as direct flights between South-East Asia and
Europe. For example, it will permit westbound direct flights such as
Kuala Lumpur to Frankfurt or Paris, with the ability to carry
additional cargo on the eastbound return flight.
Head
of the A330 programme Patrick Piedrafita commented: “The A330 is
already a highly efficient and reliable airliner and we have taken it
as our duty to maximise this even further, along with range and
payload increases.” He added: “We are currently delivering more
A330s per month than ever before, and this is set to continue,
especially given the ongoing improvements we are introducing to the
airframe, cabin interior, and engines.”
