Airbus A350 Overview

Introduction

• The Airbus A350 is described as the most advanced commercial aircraft in the world.
• Features innovative design and construction, comprising two and a half million components.
• Assembled by 1,800 professionals utilizing precision workmanship and expertise.
• Focus on minimal fuel consumption and maximum range.

Manufacturing Process

Location

• Assembly takes place in Toulouse, France, at Airbus headquarters, the largest aircraft manufacturer in Europe.
• Components are delivered by the Beluga transport aircraft, designed to carry large sections of the A350.

Delivery and Logistics

• The Beluga can hold entire fuselage sections or wings, crucial for the construction process.
• Critical to unload all freight within an hour to prevent delays in the construction.
• Parts come from various suppliers across Europe (e.g., nose from France, wings from Britain, tail from Germany).

Assembly Line Process

Station 59

• First stage of final assembly where fuselage is outfitted with passenger cabin components like galleys and washrooms.
• Nine fuselage segments can be worked on simultaneously to minimize production time.

Workforce

• Each shift starts with a team briefing; specialists divide tasks for efficient workflow.
• Workers require extensive training due to the complexity and safety critical nature of the installations.

Quality Control

• Quality inspectors check fuselage segments for defects before outfitting.
• Inspections include ultrasonic checks, especially for electrical components and structural integrity.

Station 50

• The "marriage" of fuselage sections occurs here, aligning them with precision and fastening with thousands of rivets.
• A350 features 53% carbon composite material, lighter and allowing for complex shapes.

Wings and Tail Assembly

• Wings are the largest components made of carbon fiber composite material.
• Wing design optimizes aerodynamics and incorporates advanced noise reduction features.
• The horizontal tail plane and vertical tail plane are also made from carbon fiber.

Final Assembly and Testing

Station 40

• Installation of main landing gear, wings, and tail assemblies.
• A350 is about 90% complete after this stage.

Cabin Installation

• Parallel installation of cabin interiors while assembly continues.
• Focus on enhancing passenger comfort and cabin functionality.

Station 30

• Final adjustments and quality control checks conducted here.
• Functionality tests for over 180 kilometers of wiring installed in every A350.

Station 20

• Engine installation takes place at this stage.
• The A350 is powered by the Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, known for fuel efficiency and reduced noise.

Conclusion

• After four and a half months of assembly, the A350 is completed and ready for its maiden flight.
• A350 aircraft play a significant role in connecting continents, demonstrating state-of-the-art aviation technology.