C295 gets civil certification, carries anti-ship missile

The maritime patrol variant of the Airbus C295 has made its first flight carrying a Marte anti-ship missile. (Airbus)

Airbus Military’s C295 airlifter has received civil aviation certification as Airbus seeks to expand the aircraft’s marketability.

Airbus said the certification, awarded by Spanish civil aviation authority AESA, would allow it to market the C295 to international aid ogranisations, non-governmental peacekeeping operations, and police and other security agencies.

The certification allows transport of up to 70 passengers or 21 patient litters, carriage of up to eight cargo pallets, and mixed carriage of cargo and passengers.

“The C295 has been designed from the outset as an exceptionally robust and reliable aircraft which is highly suitable for demanding ‘civic’ operations for the benefit of society,” Airbus Military head of engineering Miguel Angel Morell said. “Obtaining civil certification ensures its acceptability to all agencies operating in this area and cements its leadership in the sector.”

Airbus last week also said the maritime patrol variant of the C295 made its first flight carrying a Marte MK2/S anti-ship missile installed under the wing. Testing of the combination was to continue.