Airbus considers second A350 assembly line as long-haul demand grows

Airbus is preparing to decide on an expansion of A350 production capacity as airlines seek more long-haul aircraft. Commercial aircraft chief executive Lars Wagner said the investment would require board approval, but that a decision was expected sooner rather than later. 

Speaking in Toulouse on 14 October, Wagner said the existing A350 assembly line was designed to produce 12–13 aircraft a month. Increasing output beyond that level would require another assembly line and additional manufacturing capacity. Airbus already targets production of 12 A350s per month in 2028; no higher rate or implementation timetable has yet been announced.

The manufacturer is also studying stretched versions of the A350 and A220, commonly referred to as the A350-2000 and A220-500. Wagner said there was demand for both, with decisions expected early in the company’s next five-year planning period. Neither programme has been formally launched.

The expansion discussions come as Airbus continues to address supply-chain constraints. Some A350 customers were warned earlier this year of delivery delays linked to shortages of fuselage components. Aircraft-seat deliveries also remain a concern for widebody production, although Airbus says Rolls-Royce engine supplies are on track following earlier concerns.

Sources: Reuters, aerotime.aero,