The Airbus A-380

"An A-380 takes off or lands every 6 minutes in the world"
The A380 has been winning over business and leisure passengers alike since its service introduction in 2007, providing levels of comfort and reliability that have led travelers to specifically request flights on Airbus’ 21st century flagship – which is in operation with carriers around the globe.The double-deck A380 is the world’s largest commercial aircraft flying today, with capacity to carry 525 passengers in a comfortable three-class configuration, and up to 853 in a single-class configuration that provides wider seats than its competitor. Overall, the A380’s two decks offer 50 per cent more floor surface than any other high-capacity aircraft.With superior range of 15,700 km., the A380 is the ideal solution to alleviate traffic congestion at busy airports. It has two full-length passenger levels with true widebody dimensions: a main deck and an upper deck, which are conveniently linked by fixed stairs forward and aft.
In addition to offering the highest levels of passenger comfort, the A380 provides the lowest fuel burn per seat – which allows airlines to substantially reduce CO2 emissions for a healthier environment while achieving profitable, sustainable growth for decades to come.

It also is the quietest long-haul aircraft flying today, generating 50 per cent less noise on departure than the nearest competitor – as well as three to four times lower noise when landing, all while carrying 40 per cent more passengers. Inside the cabin, travellers have applauded the A380 for its extremely quiet cabin, which on average has half the sound energy of other aircraft. This is a key factor in stress-free flights, allowing passengers to arrive at their destination feeling refreshed.

The A380 has proven itself as a true revenue generator for a broad spectrum of leading carriers, and promises even greater potential as these current airlines and future customers explore the jetliner’s full opportunities on a range of route network segments. And whether it is being used to reduce the number of flights and create real cost savings while maintaining capacity, or to offer more capacity with fewer take-off slots, the A380 brings operators a wide range of commercial advantages.

Powerplants :-A380-800 - Four 311kN (70,000lb), initially derated to 302kN (68,000lb), later growing to 374kN (84,000lb) thrust Rolls-Royce Trent 900 or 363kN (81,500lb) thrust Engine Alliance (General Electric-Pratt & Whitney) GP-7200 turbofans.

Performance :-A380-800 - Max cruising speed M 0.88. Long range cruising speed M 0.85. Range 14,800km (8,000nm). Service ceiling 43.000ft (13,100m).
A380-800F - Range 10,370km (5,600nm).

Weights :-A380-800 - Operating empty 277,000kg (610,700lb), max takeoff 560,000kg (1,234,600lb).
A380-800F - Operating empty 252,000kg (555,600lb), max takeoff 590,000kg (1,300,700lb).Dimensions :-A380-800 - Wing span 79.8m (261ft 10in), length 72.75m (238ft 8in). Height 24.08 m (79ft)

Capacity :-A380-800 - Flightcrew of two. Standard seating for 555 passengers on two decks in a three class arrangement. Qantas plans to fit its aircraft with 523 seats (in three classes). A380 has 49% more floor area but only 35% more seats (in 555 seat configuration) than the 747-400, allowing room for passenger amenities such as bars, gymnasiums and duty free shops. Cargo capacity 38 LD3s or 13 pallets.

Production:-236 firm orders by August 2011. Airbus has forecast a market for approx 1235 airliners of 400 seats and above through to 2020. First delivery took place in autumn 2007.