Farnborough '92 Review

ALTHOUGH some large companies had a noticeably low‐key presence and there were absentees compared with previous years, the tone of the Show reflected a determination to look forward to a more rewarding environment. Several new types made their appearance, perhaps the most significant of these being the Airbus A340 which was one of six development aircraft now flying. All aspects of the flight test programme for both the ‐200 and ‐300 vesions are proceeding satisfactorily and simultaneous certification is expected in December with first delivery to Lufthansa in January, 1993. The A340‐200 series can carry a typical load of 263 passengers for up to 7,800 n miles (14,500 km) and the larger A340‐200 can carry 295 passengers for 7,250 n miles (13,400 km). Meanwhile, the first A330 two‐engine medium‐to‐long‐range counterpart with accommodation for 335 is nearing its first flight which is planned for the end of October. Another new Airbus type, the A321 seating 186 passenges is due to begin its certification programme in March next year with entry into service early in 1994.