First TC Issued By Newly Integrated Agency

Airlines -- and corporate buyers -- interested in the Airbus A318 now have two choices for the aircraft's powerplant. Aero-News has learned the Pratt & Whitney PW6000-powered A318 has been granted its type certificate by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This follows an extensive year-long test period, comprised of approximately 540 flight test hours in around 240 flights.

This type certificate is also the first issued by the new integrated European Agency, which covers all European Community Countries. The document was issued by Dr. Norbert Lohl, EASA Director Certification Directorate, during a ceremony held at Airbus's site in Hamburg, Germany.

"Our A318 is the ideal aircraft for regional sectors, both for existing Airbus customers and for airlines wishing to join the ranks of some 200 carriers who have chosen to operate Airbus aircraft for their unmatched versatility, high-comfort standards and low-operating costs," says Mario Heinen, Senior Vice President for the A320 Family Program. "The certification of the Pratt & Whitney powered A318 now really gives a choice of powerplant to customers."

The A318, initially powered by CFM International CFM56-5B engines, performed its maiden flight on 15 January 2002 and received its type certificate on 23 May 2003.

The new PW6000 engine (right) ranges from 22,000 to 24,000 lbs of thrust, providing aircraft performance that typical A318 operators expect on short-haul, high-frequency routes, while meeting Stage 4 aircraft noise requirements and CAEP 4 engine emissions requirements with room to spare.

The Airbus A320-Family covers the 100-seater A318, A319 (124 seats), A320 (150 seats) and A321 (185 seats). Nearly 4,000 aircraft have been sold to date, according to Airbus. It is currently the only single aisle, fly-by-wire technology aircraft on the market.

FMI: www.airbus.com