British Airways has taken delivery of its first A350 aircraft powered by engines made in Derby by Rolls-Royce.
This week, the national flag carrier got its hands on its first A350-1000 at Airbus’ headquarters in Toulouse, France.
The airline has ordered a total of 18 aircraft, all of which are powered by Trent XWB engines.
Rolls-Royce, which has its civil aerospace division in Sinfin, is the exclusive engine supplier for the A350. The aircraft’s engine, the Trent XWB, was designed and developed in Derby - and is now built there.
The delivery of the first aircraft makes British Airways the first operator of the A350-1000 in the International Airlines Group (IAG). Iberia, which is also part of IAG, already operates five of the smaller A350-900 aircraft.
The new aircraft features a Club Suite section - the first new business class seat for British Airways in 13 years. It offers direct-aisle access, a suite door for greater privacy and luxurious flat-bed seats.
British Airways, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary, will initially use the aircraft to fly between London and Madrid prior to flying long-haul routes from September.
Carolina Martinoli, British Airways’ director of brand and customer experience, said: “We are delighted to welcome the first of our A350s to the fleet.
“This aircraft marks a significant and exciting milestone in our £6.5 billion investment programme and is even more special as it comes with our new Club Suite.
“The A350 is a fantastic aircraft and an excellent showpiece for British engineering. Our customers are going to love the space, light and comfort on board.”
In a statement, Airbus said: “The A350 XWB offers by design unrivalled operational flexibility and efficiency for all market segments up to ultra-long haul (15,000 km).
“It features the latest aerodynamic design, a carbon fibre fuselage and wings, plus new fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce engines.
“Together, these latest technologies translate into unrivalled levels of operational efficiency, with a 25% reduction in fuel burn and emissions.
“The A350 XWB’s cabin is the quietest of any twin-aisle and offers passengers and crews the most modern in-flight products for the most comfortable flying experience.”
