Commercial Aviation : Potential Safety and Capacity Issues Associated with the Introduction of the New A380 Aircraft

Airbus S.A.S., a European aircraft manufacturer, is introducing a new aircraft designated as the A380, which is expected to enter service in late 2007. The A380 will be the largest passenger aircraft in the world, with a wingspan of 262¿, a tail fin reaching 80¿ high, & a maximum takeoff weight of 1.2 million pounds. The A380 has a double deck & could seat up to 853 passengers. This report discusses: (1) the safety issues associated with introducing the A380 at U.S. airports; (2) the potential impact of A380 operations on the capacity of U.S. airports; & (3) how selected foreign airports are preparing to accommodate the A380. The author conducted site visits to the 18 U.S. airports & 11 Asian, Canadian, & European airports preparing to receive the A380. Ill.Dillingham, Gerald L. is the author of 'Commercial Aviation : Potential Safety and Capacity Issues Associated with the Introduction of the New A380 Aircraft', published 2007 under ISBN 9781422315835 and ISBN 1422315835.