First EgyptAir Airbus A220 Conducts Maiden Flight

The first Airbus A220-300 for EgyptAir has performed its maiden flight, indicating delivery is not far away.

Taking off from Mirabel in Quebec on 22nd of August, the aircraft proceeded over the Canadian countryside to undergo initial production flight tests.

The following weeks will see the aircraft tested by Airbus, then handed over for customer acceptance flights prior to being delivered.

Registered C-FPBE under test conditions and bearing serial number 55058, the aircraft is the first of 12 on order by the airline.

The 12 aircraft on order will be operated by EgyptAir’s regional arm, EgyptAir Express, who has opted for 134 seats to be installed in the aircraft.

It’s understood these aircraft will be used to replace EgyptAir Express’ 12 Embraer E170LR jets.

Airbus states the A220-300 provides fuel savings of up to 20 percent, when compared to previous generation competing aircraft.

This is thanks to two Pratt and Whitney PW1521G Geared Turbofan engines and state-of-the-art aerodynamics.

No announcement has been made as to when the aircraft will enter service with EgyptAir Express.

Generally speaking a new aircraft requires pilot, cabin crew and maintenance familiarisation, meaning the first commercial flights will likely take place a few weeks to a month after delivery.

Are you excited to see this aircraft in EgyptAir Express’ fleet?