Airbus A350 Presentation Notes

Introduction

• The Airbus A350 is described as the most advanced commercial aircraft in the world.
• Construction involves 2.5 million components and 1,800 professionals for final assembly.
• Focus on minimal fuel consumption and maximum range through precision workmanship.

Location: Toulouse, France

• Headquarters of Airbus, the largest aircraft manufacturer in Europe.
• Delivery of components facilitated by the Beluga transport aircraft.
  • 1,500 cubic meter cargo compartment and 47 metric ton payload.
  • Essential for transporting fuselage sections and wings.

Assembly Process Overview

• Involves 4,500 suppliers and 12 Airbus facilities across Europe (France, Spain, Germany, and Great Britain).
• Different sites contribute specific components:
  • Nose and midsection from Saint-Nazaire, tail from Hamburg, wings from the UK.
• Perfect coordination is crucial for timely deliveries and assembly.

Final Assembly Line

Station 59

• First stage of final assembly involves fitting large components like galleys and washrooms.
• Nine fuselage segments can be worked on simultaneously.
• Assembly process allows outfitting and assembly to occur in parallel, reducing production time.

Worker Responsibilities

• Daily team briefings for task division among electricians and installation technicians.
• Importance of highly-trained craftsmen due to safety and operational requirements.
• Quality inspectors check every fuselage section before outfitting.

Station 50 - "Marriage" of Fuselage Sections

• Fuselage sections from different areas are joined with precision.
• Use of approximately 40,000 fasteners and 10,000 rivets.
• 53% of the A350 is composed of carbon composites, making it lighter and allowing complex shapes.

Installation of Key Components

• Nose gear and landing gear installation with checks for functionality.
• The aircraft's fuselage rests on its wheels for the first time, symbolizing a crucial moment in assembly.
• Station 40 focuses on fitting wings, landing gear, and tail assembly while cabin outfitting continues in parallel.

Interior and Cabin Features

• A350 designed for passenger comfort with improved noise and pressure levels.
• Installation of seats and cabin components, ensuring high-quality standards.
• Work involves extensive testing of electrical systems and safety components.

Engine Installation at Station 20

• Two state-of-the-art Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines fitted, noted for fuel efficiency and low emissions.
• Extensive stress tests conducted prior to delivery.

Quality Assurance and Final Adjustments

• Quality control checks are vital at each stage, with adjustments made as necessary.
• Preparation for paint job and ensuring all components meet high standards.

Conclusion

• The completed A350 represents months of hard work and dedication.
• The aircraft is ready for its maiden flight, connecting millions of people worldwide.
• Airbus A350 is celebrated as a marvel of modern engineering.