- Airbus' iconic Beluga "Super Transporter" freighters have transitioned from internal cargo movers to a dedicated airline, Airbus Beluga Transport (AiBT), specializing in oversized cargo for external clients.
- This strategic shift aligns with the arrival of the larger and more efficient BelugaXL, designed to support Airbus' ramped-up production of commercial aircraft.
- Compared to its predecessor, the BelugaXL boasts significantly larger cargo capacity, faster turnaround times, and the ability to transport entire sets of A350 wings, solidifying its position as a leader in oversized cargo transportation.
From Internal Mover to Oversized Cargo Specialist: The Rise of Airbus Beluga Transport
Airbus' fleet of five Beluga "Super Transporter" freighters has embarked on a new chapter, transitioning from internal cargo movers to a full-fledged independent airline named Airbus Beluga Transport (AiBT). This strategic move comes as Airbus focuses on catering to external clients seeking bespoke solutions for transporting oversized cargo, leveraging the capabilities of its newly arrived BelugaXL freighter.
The BelugaST, a modified A300-600 airliner, served Airbus' cargo subsidiary, Airbus Transport International, for over two decades, efficiently transporting airplane parts across the globe. However, the increasing production rates of popular Airbus models like the A320 and A350 necessitated a larger and more capable freighter. Enter the BelugaXL, based on the A330-200 twin-engine platform.
With its 62-foot height, 197-foot wingspan, and distinctive bulbous nose, the BelugaXL dwarfs its predecessor. Inside, it boasts the "largest cargo bay cross-section of all existing cargo aircraft worldwide," according to Airbus, enabling it to carry an entire set of A350 wings at once, a feat impossible for the BelugaST. This enhanced capacity significantly reduces turnaround times, thanks to its "high-speed cargo loading system," a pivotal factor in meeting Airbus' production targets.
Beyond sheer size, the BelugaXL offers an array of technological advancements. Utilizing existing components and infrastructure from the A330 platform keeps operational costs lower, while a lowered cockpit and redesigned rear end, cargo bay, and tail contribute to its unique and recognizable silhouette.
The arrival of the BelugaXL and the establishment of AiBT signify a strategic shift for Airbus. Now, businesses from various industries can access the Beluga's exceptional capabilities for their oversized cargo needs, placing Airbus at the forefront of this specialized transportation market. While competitors like the Boeing 747 and Antonov An-124 offer similar nose-loading options, the BelugaXL's unparalleled cargo capacity and impressive efficiency make it a truly formidable contender.
As Phillippe Sabo, head of transport at Airbus, aptly remarked, "We are really impressed with the aircraft… I particularly like the livery – it feels like the aircraft is looking at me when I'm close to it!" The BelugaXL is not just a cargo carrier; it's a technological marvel with a charming personality, poised to revolutionize the transportation of oversized cargo and solidify Airbus' position as a leader in this niche market.
The BelugaST, a modified A300-600 airliner, served Airbus' cargo subsidiary, Airbus Transport International, for over two decades, efficiently transporting airplane parts across the globe. However, the increasing production rates of popular Airbus models like the A320 and A350 necessitated a larger and more capable freighter. Enter the BelugaXL, based on the A330-200 twin-engine platform.
With its 62-foot height, 197-foot wingspan, and distinctive bulbous nose, the BelugaXL dwarfs its predecessor. Inside, it boasts the "largest cargo bay cross-section of all existing cargo aircraft worldwide," according to Airbus, enabling it to carry an entire set of A350 wings at once, a feat impossible for the BelugaST. This enhanced capacity significantly reduces turnaround times, thanks to its "high-speed cargo loading system," a pivotal factor in meeting Airbus' production targets.
Beyond sheer size, the BelugaXL offers an array of technological advancements. Utilizing existing components and infrastructure from the A330 platform keeps operational costs lower, while a lowered cockpit and redesigned rear end, cargo bay, and tail contribute to its unique and recognizable silhouette.
The arrival of the BelugaXL and the establishment of AiBT signify a strategic shift for Airbus. Now, businesses from various industries can access the Beluga's exceptional capabilities for their oversized cargo needs, placing Airbus at the forefront of this specialized transportation market. While competitors like the Boeing 747 and Antonov An-124 offer similar nose-loading options, the BelugaXL's unparalleled cargo capacity and impressive efficiency make it a truly formidable contender.
As Phillippe Sabo, head of transport at Airbus, aptly remarked, "We are really impressed with the aircraft… I particularly like the livery – it feels like the aircraft is looking at me when I'm close to it!" The BelugaXL is not just a cargo carrier; it's a technological marvel with a charming personality, poised to revolutionize the transportation of oversized cargo and solidify Airbus' position as a leader in this niche market.
