17.11.2009 Airbus A380 in Zurich for the first timeOn 20 and 21 January 2010, the world's largest passenger aircraft, the Airbus A380, will come to Zurich Airport for the first time.
On these two days various tests and a public event are planned.
The world's largest passenger aircraft will land at Zurich Airport for the first time on 20 and 21 January for various tests and a public event. The Airbus A380 has four engines, two passenger decks, a wingspan of around 80 metres, and can transport up to a maximum of 853 passengers. A number of airlines that fly to Zurich Airport have ordered A380 aircraft or already have them in their fleet, including Singapore Airlines, Emirates and Lufthansa.
Tests and a public event
A series of tests is now set to confirm in practice that the calculations for obstacle clearance and effects on the navigation systems are correct, and that handling, refuelling, de-icing and energy supply all function smoothly. Airbus is providing Zurich Airport with an A380 for 24 hours for this purpose. The Swiss Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) requires that such tests be carried out before new, larger aircraft types are permitted to use an airport. Only after they have been completed will the Airbus A380 be allowed to regularly take off and land at Zurich Airport. No passengers are involved in the tests.
As part of the tests, the airport operator is planning to hold an event for interested members of the public. The precise time and programme for the event have yet to be announced.