A350 XWB: High Altitude Testing Airbus

The Airbus A350 XWB (Extra Wide Body) is currently undergoing high altitude airfield testing at La Paz, Bolivia, one of the highest airports in the world. The goal of testing is to prove the engines, systems, materials, and overall aircraft behavior can perform under extreme high altitude conditions. Here are some cool facts about the airfield testing, as well as the A350 next-generation airliner.

13,323 Feet Field elevation of La Paz airport. This makes it the 5th highest commercial airport in the world. MSN3 Designation name for the development aircraft in La Paz. MSN3 is one of five A350 test aircraft. 657,000 Pounds Max takeoff weight of the A350-900. 800 Hours Number of flight test hours that have been accumulated on the A350 so far. 2,500 Hours Total number of flight test hours that will be accumulated across the fleet of five A350 test aircraft. 276-369 Total number of passengers, based on model and seating configuration. 10,300 NM Maximum range of the A350-900 in nautical miles. 41,200 Gallons Maximum fuel capacity of the A350-900. 97,000 LB Maximum thrust produced by each engine on the A350-900. 53% Percentage of the total airframe that is made of composite material.

Now that you know the facts, here are some cool photos of the A350. Enjoy!