Aviation Technical English for aircraft maintenance engineers (Авиационный технический английский язык для студентов-авитехников)

62 THEAIRBUS A380 TheAirbus A380 was developed in response to the growing problems of airport congestion and air traffic control systems struggling to cope with the number of aircraft in operation. Originally known as the A3XX, the enormous design was re-christened as the A380 following the official launch of the program in late 2000. Upon entering service, the A380 will become the first full triple-decked super jumbo-jet as well as the first true competitor to the Boeing 747. Thoughmany argue that the aviation industry is not ready for such a giant, Airbus believes that by commiting to the A380 now, the company will be in excellent position to take advantage of such a need in future. Despite its large size, theA380 adopts a conventional airliner design with a cylindrical fuselage slightly wider than that of the 747. The A380 also features a standard low-mounted swept-wing configuration with four podded engines along its span. The landing gear system include 22 wheels so that the load per wheel is comparable to that of the Boeing 747 and 777. This design makes theA380 compatible with most existing runways at major airports. However, the large wingspan requires most airports to widen taxiways so that two A380 aircraft can pass each other. Many airports must also build additional jet-way bridges to accomodate the large number of passengers, and baggage handling systems also need upgrading. The internal layout of the A380 is of typical configuration with passengers seated on the two upper decks and cargo located on the lower deck. The flight deck is very similar to that of the A330/A340 family to ease A380 pilot training and promote commonality across the Airbus production line. Furthermore, the cockpit is located in between the upper and main decks at a height comparable to that of smaller airliners for easier pilot familiarity. Two basic models are currently being marketed, theA380- 800 passenger model seating up to 555 in three classes and theA380-800F freighter version. Additional extended range, passenger/cargo, and stretched models are also under consideration. *www.aerospaceweb.org/aircraft/jetliner/a380/index.shtml (05.10.2018).