With so many sterling airlines having problems filling seats, let alone getting off the ground on time in this dismal economic climate, has Airbus lost its collective mind? Last Tuesday in Nantes, France, Airbus revealed a section of its A-380 super jumbo aircraft able to carry 555 passengers. In contrast, Boeing’s 747 has approximately 416 seats depending upon configuration.
The A-380 is deemed ideal to serve major international city hubs. Composite material, including carbon, is just some of the building high technology being used to keep weight down and fuel costs in line. Airbus plans to launch the A-380 in 2005. In anticipation of commercial service readiness in 2006, several international airlines have placed 129 orders for the mammoth planes.
