MSN 321, the first Airbus A350-900 for Japan Airlines (JAL), has rolled out of the paint hangar, becoming the first Airbus aircraft directly produced for the airline.
Registered F-WZHF, the aircraft is powered by two Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines and is the first of 18 A350-900s and 13 A350-1000s the airline has on order. Delivery for this aircraft is expected to take place in June.
Being the first Airbus aircraft directly produced for the airline, Japan Airlines has opted to apply Airbus A350 branding to the aft section of the fuselage.
With the red colored decal, this aircraft, registered JA01XJ when handed over, symbolizes challenge. The next two aircraft will feature green and silver decals, symbolizing innovation and “eco” respectively.
From September this year, Japan Airlines will deploy their brand new Airbus A350-900 on its Haneda – Fukuoka route, replacing the Boeing 777-200 that currently operates it.
With their older Boeing 777s nearing the end of their efficient life, Japan Airlines will use the incoming A350s to replace them. Three more A350s will arrive before the end of the year, with the remaining 14 arriving consistently through to 2023.
Deliveries of the larger A350-1000 model will commence from 2021, joining the A350-900 in replacing parts of their widebody fleet.
Are you excited to see this aircraft in action?