A350 touches down in Bolivia for hot weather testing

A350 test aircraft MSN3 has arrived in Cochabamba, Bolivia for high altitude testing.

Airbus says the high altitude test flights, from Cochabamba (8,300ft) and La Paz (13,300ft), are designed to validate engine and systems, materials functionality and overall aircraft behaviour.

“A number of takeoffs with all engines operating and with simulated engine failures are being performed at each of the airfields to collect data on engine operating characteristics and validate the aircraft takeoff performance. The autopilot behaviour will also be evaluated during automatic landings and go-arounds,” Airbus said in a statement.

The A350 flight aircraft have flown over 800 flight hours on 200 flight tests to date.