35 Years of Airbus A340 - Google Search

Airbus A340: 35 Years of Long-Haul Excellence

The Airbus A340 is a long-range, four-engine, wide-body commercial passenger jet airliner that was developed and produced by Airbus. While the A340 didn't exactly have a 35-year history in service, its development began in 1987, making it about 35 years old from conception to the present day.

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1987

Airbus launches the A340 program alongside the A330.

1991

First flight of the Airbus A340-300.

1993

Lufthansa and Air France receive their first A340s.

2002

Introduction of the ultra-long-range A340-500 and high-capacity A340-600.

2011

Airbus announces the end of the A340 program.

2022

Some A340s still in service, mostly with smaller airlines and as VIP transports.

A340: A Legacy of Long-Haul Innovation

Although the A340 is no longer in production, its 35-year history from concept to present day showcases several notable achievements:

First Airbus four-engine widebody aircraft
Capable of ultra-long-haul flights (A340-500 variant)
Excellent safety record with no hull-loss accidents due to mechanical failure
Played a crucial role in establishing Airbus as a competitor to Boeing in the long-haul market
Paved the way for future Airbus long-haul aircraft like the A350

While the A340 has been largely superseded by more fuel-efficient twin-engine aircraft, it remains an important part of aviation history and Airbus's legacy.

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