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Issue 37 – February 15, 2008

In this issue of the EADS North America Tanker Activity Update:

•	Phase 1 flight testing is completed with the Royal Australian Air Force’s no. 1 A330 MRTT
•	Hawaiian Airlines signs firm order for six A330-200s

Phase 1 flight testing is completed with the Royal Australian Air Force’s no. 1 A330 MRTT

EADS’ first A330 MRTT for the Royal Australian Air Force has completed its Phase 1 flight testing, demonstrating the reliability and performance of this aircraft configuration – on which Northrop Grumman’s KC-30 Tanker offer is based for the U.S. Air Force’s aerial refueling fleet recapitalization. 

Phase 1 testing of the A330 MRTT was performed in just three months, logging a total of 63 flights and 202 flight hours.  During this activity, the Multi-Role Tanker Transport’s full flight envelope was validated, and no limitations or restrictions were found.  In addition, no flights were cancelled or delayed due to technical problems, underscoring the high availability rate expected when the A330 MRTT enters operational service with the RAAF.

In-flight evaluations during Phase 1 included handling qualities, buffet, flutter, loads, performance and flight controls – including the new tanker/receiver-adapted control laws.  The A330 MRTT confirmed its superior flight qualities in the tanker role, and demonstrated that modifications introduced for the Multi-Role Tanker Transport configuration (which includes the centerline Aerial Refueling Boom System and two under-wing digital refueling pods) have no significant effect on overall aircraft performance.   

The results of loads, performance and handling qualities showed full consistency with the design-calculated data.  Additionally, the aircraft was verified buffet-free and flutter-free in the entire envelope to the maximum design speed (MD/VD).

During this flight test phase, the A330 MRTT deployed its hoses and drogues, conducting proximity flights in the tanker mode with an F/A-18 as the receiver aircraft.  The A330 MRTT also flew in the receiver mode – joining up with EADS’ A310 demonstrator aircraft, which is equipped with the Aerial Refueling Boom System. 
 

Hawaiian Airlines signs firm order for six A330-200s

Hawaiian Airlines Inc., has signed a firm order for six A330-200s – adding another U.S. customer to the list of carriers choosing the twin-engine jetliner on which the KC-30 Tanker is based.

The deal finalizes a Memorandum of Understanding announced in November 2007, with the A330-200’s introduction enabling Hawaii's largest airline to expand its long-range fleet and open new non-stop routes to more distant markets from Hawaii.

Contact:
Guy Hicks
Vice President – Communications and Public Relations
EADS North America
Tel: 703 236-3300
e-mail: guy.hicks@eads-na.com