AIRBUS A380 lands in the City of Angels

A380 MSN001, powered by four Rolls Royce Trent 900 engines, was at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to carry out airport function and compatibility checks in conjunction with Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) and Qantas Airways. While at LAX, the crews will test airfield maneuvering, docking at a terminal gate, ground-handling services and equipment (including fueling).

Los Angeles Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa greeted the arriving plane and its crew upon landing, and toured the world’s newest passenger aircraft with the Airbus flight crew and Airbus North America Chairman Allan McArtor.

“Los Angeles has always played a leading role in the advancement of aviation, so it is fitting that Los Angeles International Airport hosts the first U.S. visit of the next generation of aircraft,” said Villaraigosa. “Ours is a world class city and this historic occasion signifies our standing as a leading international gateway.”

McArtor added, “LAX is a preferred international gateway to the U.S. West Coast for the world’s airlines. We are extremely impressed by the mayor’s determination to ensure that his great city and this great airport is ready for the A380.”

Seven Airbus customers plan to operate the A380 at LAX, and the airport has been working to prepare the airport for the arrival of new large aircraft like the A380. The tests this week will help ensure that everything is ready.

“We welcome our friends at Airbus, who have brought this remarkable aircraft to Los Angeles today, and our friends at Qantas, who will fly the first scheduled commercial flight of the A380 to LAX next year,” said Alan Rothenberg, president of the Board of Airport Commissioners. “We are grateful to them for recognizing the importance of LAX to commercial aviation and providing us an awe-inspiring view at the future of air travel.”