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15 October 2007
Delivering the world’s largest, most efficient and comfortable aircraft
It was an emotional and symbolic occasion when Airbus handed over the first ever A380 to Singapore Airlines
in a ceremony at the Henri Ziegler Delivery Centre in Toulouse. The ceremony was attended by over 500 guests
who enjoyed a light show of images projected on to a model of the A380, as well as a chance to tour the cabin
of the aircraft and experience for the first time Singapore Airline’s highly luxurious, innovative and spacious
cabin designs.
Airbus president and chief executive officer Thomas Enders began his speech by thanking Singapore Airlines for
their role as launch customer of the aircraft: “Today is our chance to thank you for challenging us and sharing
our ambitious dream of creating the world’s largest, most efficient and comfortable aircraft,” he said.
“The A380 is unquestionably the defining aircraft of its generation and the airlines operating it will be a class
apart. This Gentle Green Giant gives airlines an opportunity for growth and innovation, but with less environmental
impact and unprecedented comfort.”
In response, Singapore Airlines’ Chief Executive Officer Chew Choon Seng thanked Airbus and Rolls-Royce for
delivering an aircraft that meets or even betters the target of fuel consumption and noise specifications, and
said that he believed that the A380 had been well worth the wait.
“With today’s delivery of the first A380 we start a new chapter in the history of commercial aviation,” he said.
“For Singapore Airlines, the all-new A380 offers a perfect platform for raising our products and services to new
heights in all three cabin classes,” he said.
The airline has chosen a luxurious configuration to carry 471 people in three classes. In the coach cabin this
means seats that offer more leg room for passengers. Business passengers will enjoy 86cm wide seats that convert
to a fully flat surface for sleeping.
“The piece de résistance will be our new premier cabin,” Chew added. “Which will introduce a travel experience beyond
first class. It is meant for those travellers who want no compromise between sitting and sleeping. We are introducing
a front compartment with 12 unique private suites, with a fully adjustable seat and also separately a real bed with
a full-size mattress.”
Chew concluded by expressing his gratitude to Airbus, Rolls-Royce and all other parties involved in making this
dream of setting a new standard for luxury and comfort in commercial aircraft come true for his airline.
Thomas Enders also paid tribute to the work of Airbus’ employees – a remarkable group of people whose flair,
determination and sheer hard work over the last four decades had, he said, changed the face of aviation. “I
hope you are as proud today as you were when this incredible aircraft made its first flight,” he added.
Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce Sir John Rose also recognised what he called “Airbus’ vision, innovation
and determination” in developing the A380. “Without these qualities,” he said, “We would not be standing here today
admiring one of the most technologically advanced aircraft in the world.”
Source © Airbus
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Edition Nov 2007
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