Airbus to deliver 13 A380s this year

Sources close to Airbus claim that it will only deliver 13 A380s this year, one fewer than planned as the program continues to face ongoing challenges, according to reports.

CEO Louis Gallois has confirmed that the company “might” deliver 13 A380s this year, but has not yet confirmed that it will be below its latest delivery targets, news agency Reuters reports. Sources indicate that ongoing issues with the ‘Wave Two’ aircraft (which feature redesigned wiring looms following issues with early production aircraft) may have forced the delay of some aircraft. It is understood that one A380 destined for Qantas has been delayed by one month, although it has been claimed that this is not related to any production issues.

Despite the claims that the aircraft will fall short of its delivery targets, progress continues on a number of A380s, with the first A380 for Air France, MSN033, making its first flight from Hamburg in full livery on September 25 for a five hour cabin test flight. The aircraft (pictured) is due for delivery in late October.