Airbus’ newest A330 version: “The right aircraft, right now” for domestic and regional operations

 

The newly-unveiled A330-300 domestic/regional version benefits from Airbus’ continued investments in the most efficient mid-size widebody jetliner operating today, providing a highly reliable, cost-effective and modern aircraft for growing passenger markets such as China and India.


Its increased capacity of 356-400 seats – combined with a lower operational weight, optimised thrust engines, a latest-technology cockpit and tailored passenger cabin – will provide the new A330-300 with unit costs similar to Airbus’ single-aisle A321.



In matching the A330-300 to shorter-range operations, its cabin will incorporate modern lightweight slim-line economy seats (weighing just over half that of typical long-haul seats), galleys optimised for food service on domestic/regional routes (with the capacity for one meal, plus a snack for travel times of two/three hours), and the elimination of crew rest areas utilised on long-distance flights.



The cockpit integrates Airbus’ latest technology from the A350 XWB and A380, further facilitating the A330-300’s operations in high-frequency service. Features earmarked for the domestic/regional version include dual head-up displays (which meet upcoming requirements from civil aviation authorities) and protection from runway overrun situations during landing.



Airbus’ development of the latest A330 version builds on this jetliner’s already successful deployment on short/medium-range routes around the world, including in China – where A330s already operate a significant number of domestic services.



Overall, Airbus has sold more than 1,250 A330s in passenger, freighter, VIP and multi-role variants, with the production rate at its highest level ever – confirming this jetliner’s tagline as: “The right aircraft, right now.”