News
GE Aviation delivers first wing parts for A350 XWB
March 11, 2013, Southampton, U.K. - GE Aviation has delivered its initial production wing fixed trailing edge components for the first A350 XWB, marking a critical program milestone before its maiden flight.
March 11, 2013 By aerospace-technology.com
The first A350 XWB-MSN001, which is now structurally complete, is currently undergoing ground testing in Toulouse, France.
The A350 XWB wing fixed trailing edge package is the largest production contract awarded to GE Aviation's Hamble-le-Rice facility in Southampton, Hampshire, U.K., since its inception.
As part of the deal, GE Aviation has agreed to provide the wing fixed trailing edge for all the three A350 XWB
variants including the A350-800, 900 and 1000.
The package comprises more than 3,000 components such as structural composite panels and complex machined assemblies.
The A350 XWB has a total wingspan of more than 64 metres and is scheduled to enter service in 2014.
GE Aviation's aerostructures and nacelle activities executive product leader Steve Walters said that this delivery resulted from achievements at GE Aviation in design and manufacturing.
"During the program, GE Aviation, as risk-sharing partner, developed a close working relationship with Airbus, as the aircraft manufacturer providing advice, assistance and support that enabled us to meet this major delivery milestone," Walters said.
In October 2008, GE Aviation started work on the wing components from a basic conceptual design, while enhancing its management to address the scale of the project.
GE Aviation stated that it would add a new composites facility at the Hamble-le-Rice plant, which will be completely used for the A350 XWB production programme.
