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After 14 years, Airbus ends A380 deliveries
Airbus A380
Emirates
Julian Herzog, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Rafael Ramos
12/17/2021
This Thursday, 16, Airbus delivers its last superjumbo A380. The era of production of the iconic plane ends after 14 years. Over 18 years, 272 units of the giant were produced, of which Emirates acquired 123 units. In addition, the last unit, with registration number A6-EVS and serial number 272 also belongs to the Arab company.
The giant with capacity for 500 passengers divided into two floors was well below Airbus' expectation, which was 1,000 units. Airlines opted for smaller, more modern and more efficient planes.
On the other hand, Emirates believes in the superjumbo's potential to attract passengers, as the plane has unique characteristics. Unlike other companies, Tim Clark, CEO of Emirates, believes that spacious, four-engine jets like the A380 still have their place in aviation. "Technocrats and accountants said it wasn't appropriate... It doesn't resonate with our traveling audience. They love that plane," Clark said.
The A380 was created to take advantage of the slots available with as many passengers as possible. However, with the emergence of more modern aircraft, such as the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350, which have lower operating costs and can cover distances that were previously unfeasible, the A380 lost space in the market.
On the other hand, the A380 manages to fulfill the role of optimizing the slots. Anyway, Emirates has plans to continue with the plane for a long time.
Last Sunday, a pre-delivery flight was made with the big guy. The pilots made a route in order to draw a heart in the sky as a way to say goodbye to the plane. The flight took place in northern Germany.
Delivery should be more discreet, as Airbus is focused on other planes. In addition, delivery takes place amid restrictions imposed by covid-19.
Airbus A380
Emirates
Julian Herzog, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Flight of the last A380
Image: FlightRadar24
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Rafael Ramos
Aviation enthusiast from an early age, he had his first contacts with the area developing that good old habit of spending dozens of hours in front of the screens of Micrsoft Flight Simulator and other simulators. With a solid background in various technological areas, including engineering and chemistry, Rafael has rejoined aviation as editor and author of articles and materials on our portal, providing invaluable help to the dynamics and expansion of the website and the aeronautical community, bringing us the news and updates so indispensable for us to remain current in our area of operation.
   
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