A321XLR Launched
Due to enter service in 2023, the A321XLR delivers an unprecedented single-aisle airliner range of up to 4,700 nautical miles with 30% lower fuel consumption per seat compared with previous-generation competitor aircraft. Following its launch in June 2019, over 450 orders and commitments had been received by year-end.
US A220 facility for Mobile, Alabama
During 2019 construction began on the US A220 manufacturing facility in Mobile, Alabama, complementing the primary final assembly line in Mirabel, Canada. The plant is creating additional jobs in Mobile.
Highly automated assembly line opens
A highly automated fuselage structure assembly line for A320 Family aircraft was opened in Hamburg, Germany. Featuring 20 robots and automated positioning by laser measurement, the facility reflects Airbus’ drive to improve both quality and efficiency while bringing an enhanced level of digitalization to its industrial production system.
Future Combat Air System progresses
Europe’s ambitious FCAS project took some major steps forward during 2019. France and Germany agreed to contract the programme’s demonstrator phase after Airbus and Dassault Aviation delivered a joint industrial proposal. The initial framework contract was awarded in early 2020.
2019 was another year of progress with some significant operational and commercial milestones achieved. The Company also further enhanced its product portfolio and continued its strong focus on innovation and sustainable aerospace.
OneSat finds success
Airbus launched and received major orders for its revolutionary OneSat product line. These satellites are fully configurable in orbit and by using a standard, modular and design-to-manufacture approach they can be delivered more quickly than existing telecommunications satellites.
Flight Demonstrators Progress
Airbus progressed in the field of urban air mobility research through its electric-powered vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) demonstrator projects. The innovative CityAirbus started its test flight campaign in Germany, while the Vahana aircraft completed its flight programme in the US.
Five-bladed H145 launched
Airbus Helicopters unveiled a new version of its best-selling H145 light twin-engine helicopter at Heli-Expo 2019. This latest upgrade brings a new, innovative five-bladed rotor to the multi-mission H145, increasing the useful load of the helicopter by 150 kg while delivering new levels of comfort, simplicity and connectivity.
E-Aircraft test facility opens
As part of Airbus’ strong commitment to pioneer eco-friendly propulsion technologies, the E-Aircraft Systems House was opened near Munich. This is Europe’s largest test facility dedicated to alternative propulsion systems and energy sources. Projects include the E-Fan X hybrid-electric aircraft demonstrator.