News: Further delays for Airbus superjumbo
Flights > News > # 977 (26/09/2006)
The Airbus A380 superjumbo faces new delays due to a string of wiring installation problems at the company’s Toulouse plant.
The project is already a year behind schedule, and Airbus’ parent company, EADS, says it is too early to say when the giant aircraft will be ready for delivery. Launch customer Singapore Airlines was hoping to take delivery of the first A380 this autumn, but French newspapers have reported the extra delays could leave them waiting at least another six months.
The delays are the latest blow to Europe's flagship project to build a double-decker airliner capable of carrying more than 850 passengers.
Frustrated airlines are pressing for penalties for late deliveries of the $300 million beast. Airbus is also under pressure from chief competitor Boeing, which is courting airlines with an alternative strategy of buying smaller jets such as its modern 787, or switching to a new stretched version of its veteran jumbo, the 450-seat 747-8.
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