A330 242t

Airbus has commenced final assembly of the first A330 with the new 242t maximum take-off-weight (MTOW) capability at its facility in Toulouse, France.

Structural assembly of the aircraft is underway prior to the cabin integration phase. The aircraft will be used for certification flight trials.

In parallel, a second aircraft is being assembled and will enter into service with launch customer Delta Air Lines in mid-2015.

Airbus A330 programme head Patrick Piedrafita said: "This newest, enhanced variant of our popular A330 family is the basis for the future A330neo and is a concrete example of Airbus’ incremental innovation strategy in action.

"Airlines operating the new 242t A330 will be able to carry additional payload on longer routes, while at the same time enjoying a very high operational reliability of 99.4%."

The 242t MTOW variant is said to feature an aerodynamic package, reducing aircraft drag, as well as the latest engine improvements. It is claimed to offer an extended range of around 500nm and 2% in fuel efficiency.

The 242t A330-300 and A330-200 are designed to fly up to 13h and 15h. The option has to date attracted nine customers since its launch in November 2012.

The A330 family airliners have so far logged more than 1,300 orders from more than 100 operators and are available in freighter, VIP and military transport / tanker variants.

Image: First 242t take-off-weight A330 starts final assembly. Photo: courtesy of Gousse Herve / Airbus S.A.S.

Defence Technology