Airbus Proves A330neo Performance in High Altitude Tests

The Airbus A330-900 test aircraft (MSN1795 / F-WTTN) recently completed a flight test campaign in Mexico and Bolivia. The aim of the two-week campaign was to demonstrate the capabilities of the aircraft and its engines in high-altitude, high-temperature conditions.

The tests took place at Toluca airport, 2,800 metres above sea level, and at La Paz airport, 4,054 metres above sea level. Bolivia, known for its warm climate and high altitudes, offers an ideal setting for assessing the design limits of Airbus aircraft. This is the first time that the A330neo has been tested in such extreme conditions, marking an important step in extending the aircraft's operational capabilities.

The main aim of these tests is to extend the scope of certified operations for the A330neo, which can currently operate at altitudes of up to 8,000 feet. With the new certification scheduled for the first quarter of 2025, the aircraft will be able to serve airports at altitudes of up to 12,500 feet, such as Lhasa in China, Bogota in Colombia, and Addis Ababa in Ethiopia.

Tests focused on take-off and landing performance, as altitude conditions reduced engine thrust. Local flights were also carried out to assess climb and approach performance. In addition, multiple engine start tests, system checks, low-speed taxiing and aborted take-offs were carried out. Engine starts, crucial in this campaign, included specific measurements of starter air pressure, influenced by the high altitude.

From March 18 to 30, a team of some 40 Airbus experts orchestrated the campaign, covering planning, logistics, maintenance, local relations (airports, air traffic control, authorizations, etc.), test support, execution and analysis. Initial results indicate good performance from the aircraft and its Trent 7000 engines, as Airbus points out.

Flight captain Franck Busnel, mission leader and test pilot, summed up the campaign by saying, "By extending the A330neo's successful operating envelope, we can show current and future operators that the aircraft achieves the same capabilities as the A330ceo in terms of high-altitude operations - with the advantage of significantly reduced fuel consumption."