O Airbus Beluga Super Transportera modified version of the Airbus A300-600, popularly known simply as “Beluga“, became famous for transporting exceptionally large loads. The aircraft is designed to transport oversized loads that would be impossible to transport by other means of air and continues to fulfil its mission by transporting ever larger and heavier loads.
O BelugaST He distinguished himself once again by carrying out a long-distance mission, taking off from Airbus’ European factories to the city of Qingdao in China and delivering two large helicopters simultaneously. This innovative flight was a first for Airbus in several categories and demonstrated the impressive capabilities of the super-sized cargo aircraft.
This mission complements a series of international flights carried out by BelugaST and the BelugaXL since the founding of Airbus Beluga-Transport (AiBT). This time, Airbus’ new air transport division completed its first operation to China, delivering two H175 helicopters.
The aircraft took off from Toulouse Blagnac Airport (TLS) on Saturday afternoon, flew over the Middle East and the Asian continent and landed at Qingdao International Airport (TAO) on Sunday morning. This long journey marked the first mission of BelugaST under the management of the new cargo airline to China.
The aircraft carried two H175 helicopters AirbusWeighing 7 tons each, it was the first time this model was taken on board BelugaThe H175, one of Airbus’ largest commercial helicopters, has been on the market since 2009.
In the first half of 2024, the operation of the Beluga and Airbus have undergone a remarkable transformation and are no longer just focusing on the transport of components between the company’s factories. In January, the program Beluga gained notoriety twice: when it obtained the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to operate flights and later when it was granted permission to transport cargo to the United States.
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