10.04.2018, 10:17

The Airbus A350-900 is a long-range wide-body passenger aircraft developed by the European company Airbus to replace the A330 and A340 airliners.

The Airbus A350−900 entered service in 2014. Commercial operation began in January 2015. The first customer to receive the A350-900 was Qatar Airlines. As of October 2016, Airbus has received orders for 600 A350-900 aircraft. Today, this model is actively used by airlines: Finnair, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines.

Location and numbering of seats in the cabin, seating diagram on the Airbus A350-900 aircraft. The best and least comfortable seats on the plane

Explanation of circuit symbols Airbus cabin A350-900

Cabin layout, the best and least comfortable seats on the Airbus A350-900 aircraft of Singapore Airlines»

The Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 offers three levels of comfort. The plane is designed for 253 passengers. Each of them has significant differences in the level of service and comfort provided.


Business Class

The plane has two business class cabins. They occupy almost half of the entire board. The comfortable 1-2-1 seating arrangement provides great distance, as well as direct access to the aisle from any seat. Luxurious seats with luxurious upholstery. The set includes a linen blanket and pillow. The back of the chair in front has a built-in 15.4-inch LCD monitor with noise-canceling headphones, cabinets, sockets with a USB input and a compact mirror. In addition to a large selection of entertainment, films, music (740 options), television programs and games, it is possible to use the Internet, but it is paid.

Pre-orders for the main course from the chef can be made no later than 24 hours before departure. You can also have lunch at the restaurant organized on board. Here visitors will be served at tables.

Regarding the choice of the best seat on the Airbus A350-900, I would like to note:

  • seats 11, 17, 18 rows: The disadvantage of these places is their close location to technical rooms. It follows that 24-hour lighting and noise can cause inconvenience.
  • 19th row seats: There are seats for passengers with children here. For this reason, unexpected sounds may disturb you if you are sitting nearby.
The rest of the places in this class have no drawbacks and can be considered the best.

Premium economy class

Places increased comfort and amenities, but at a lower cost than business class. Premium Economy is equipped with seats (49.5 cm wide) with a 2-4-2 seat layout in a row. Here you can sit comfortably, the distance between the chairs is almost a meter. The chair has a built-in footrest. The place is equipped with personal lighting in the form of a reading lamp and 2 USB ports. Electrical outlets are available to recharge or recharge electronic devices at any time. There is a specially designated place for storing personal belongings. Each seat is equipped with a multimedia system.

In premium economy class the best will be seats 31 rows. While space here is fine in every seat, it exists extra in this row. This will allow you to fully stretch your legs and feel freer.

Economy class

Economy class on Singapore Airlines is also quite comfortable. Each seat is equipped with a screen with a wide range of entertainment programs.

  • In economy class seats row 47 They are distinguished by free space and the absence of neighbors in front who can recline their backs. But the proximity of bathrooms can create inconvenience in the form of noise, human movement or unpleasant odor.
  • According to traveler reviews, seat 59G There is no luggage space, so the bag can be placed in any free space, therefore, it will not be possible to get to it quickly.
  • Best in Economy Class, there will be seats A, K 48 rows. They are located near the portholes, which will allow you to enjoy the picture outside the window during the daytime. At the same time, due to the lack of front seats, you will get free legroom and can easily get up and get out without disturbing your neighbors, unlike places A, K other rows.
  • The worst places will be A, B, C and H, J, K 61 rows, as well as places D, E, G 62 rows. Their location at the very end does not allow the seat back to be reclined, which makes it impossible to change the position. The technical rooms located directly behind them will be a source of noise.


The best seats on Finnair's Airbus A350-900 in a three-class configuration: 22 CJ, 42 AL, the worst - 55 ABC, JKL, 56 DEH.

Business class seats are comfortable, the seats are wide, the distance between the seats is enough to stretch your legs. I would like to note places ADHL 1,8 and 10 rows- during night flights, due to the nearby kitchen, light penetrates, which can cause some inconvenience.


In this configuration the most comfortable places - 42AL, ​​seats 22 ABC, DEH, JKL; 41 AC, DEH, JL; ADHL 1st and 8th row- are also quite convenient for passengers who are not embarrassed by the nearby latrines and galley.

Seats 55 ABC, JKL, 56 DEH can be called extremely inconvenient due to the fixed backs of the seats and the proximity of the toilets and kitchen.


Finnair Airbus A350-900. Bwear class


Finnair Airbus A350-900. Economy-Class


General information on the Finnair aircraft cabin

Entertainment system

Every seat on Finnair's A350-900 is equipped with an entertainment system with a wide range of audio, films, television, games and other programs. Headsets are provided free of charge on all long-haul flights except charter flights. On charter flights Additional charges apply for access to the entertainment system. All seats on board this aircraft have access to a USB port, Wi-Fi.

Children

  • On Finnair aircraft, bassinets are available for children under 2 years of age and must be reserved in advance. Basket length - 70 cm, permissible weight child - up to 11 kg.
  • On board the aircraft there is a changing table in one of the toilets, which one should be checked with the flight attendants upon boarding.
  • An infant with a reserved seat receives regular meals. Special baby food Available only in business class, in economy class - standard set.

Flight performance

  • Top speed: 945 km/h
  • Cruising speed: 903 km/h
  • Flight range: 15000 km
  • Aircraft capacity: economy class - 375 passengers, economy/business - 312 passengers, economy/business/first class - 270 passengers

The Airbus A350-900 is the basic version. It can carry up to 314 passengers in three comfort classes. The maximum flight range is 15,000 km. Airbus says the A350-900 is 30% more fuel efficient per seat and has 25% lower operating costs than the Boeing 777-200ER.

The wingtips are not traditional for Airbus: they bend upward in the last 4.4 meters in a saber shape. The wing sweep is 31.9 degrees, which will help increase the cruising speed to 903 km/h, and maximum speed- up to 945 km/h.

The new articulated flap mechanization (similar to the A380) allows the spoiler to bridge the gap between the trailing edge and the flap.

The Airbus A350-900 is equipped with two Trent XWB turbojet engines with a thrust of 374.5 kN each from Rolls & Royce.

The air in the Airbus A350 cabin is completely changed every 2-3 minutes! There are 6-8 temperature zones in the cabin, this allows you to maintain a uniform temperature everywhere. It is usually warmer in the front rows of airplanes than in the back rows because the nose is slightly raised during the flight.

Airbus A350 Qatar Airways appeared in service not so long ago: the Airbus A350 XWB began operating commercial flights in the Qatar Airways fleet in 2015.
Now my interest in this aircraft is probably clear: I want to experience something that others have not yet experienced and write my review.
That's why I flew to Qatar via Singapore.

Airbus A350 Qatar Airways

If the most big park A380 aircraft from Emirates, the largest fleet of new A350s is from Qatar, which 7 years ago placed an order with Airbus Industry for 80 aircraft and at the end of 2014 received the first A350
So far, Qatar Airways' Airbus A350 aircraft fly from Doha to several destinations: Dubai, Singapore, Frankfurt, Munich, Philadelphia, NY and Adelaide.
Flight numbers can be viewed

In my review, I will consider the new A350 in comparison with its main competitor - the Boeing B787 Dreamliner, which appeared before and has been flying commercial flights for more than 5 years.
I rely on memories from my review six months ago about

Business class A350

Completely missed my review of the business class cabin.
I’ll start my review of the business class cabin of the new A350 XWB of Qatar Airwais with the fact that the safety instructions in the individual waste paper pocket on board the aircraft are entitled: Airbus A350-900

Boarding on the A350 in Doha was through two doors: in the nose (past the open door to the cockpit) and in the “bar” area of ​​the business class cabin.
The “bar” in the A350 business class is a space with two tables that divides the business class cabin into two parts: the front (larger) and the rear (smaller).

I chose seats in the front and I can’t say anything about the convenience of the back. Let me just note that the flow of economy class passengers during boarding passes by the seats of business class passengers (the rear part).
Whether it’s convenient or not, I don’t think it’s very convenient. Therefore, you should not rush to take your seats - let the flow subside.

A place to warm up on an A350 flight

This place is the same notorious “bar”: on these two tables during part of the flight (I don’t remember the other part because I was sleeping) there was a vase of flowers, a pack of paper napkins and a vase in which there was a banana, two apples and a couple of oranges. That's why I put the word bar in quotation marks.
But there is a place here.
Free space to walk in circles, fall on the floor and do push-ups - in general, get your blood circulation moving and kill time if you don’t fall asleep.

There are two toilets on each side of the forward pedestal for business class passengers. Another toilet is almost in the cockpit with the pilots - that is, in the bow.
And if we're talking about toilets, then... but wait - I wanted to compare the A350 and the Boeing 787!
I compare: the same thing - one to one (who copied the layout of this part of the cabin from whom, you can guess by the date the aircraft were put into operation)

The A350 toilets have a full-length, human-sized floor mirror - I looked at myself when putting on my pajamas, and a flush system with a blue LED on the button. The rest is sad: a creepy sink in which snot and soap suds remain, an ergonomic push against which the stream rings, a strange compartment for disposing of syringes - I was looking for where to throw away a napkin and did not immediately find the bin hatch, but the bin for syringes was in sight (airplane from/ for junkies?)

I didn't start with that, of course. Although, as they say, theater begins with a hanger

Seat comfort in A350 business class

I don’t know about others, but I buy business tickets not for show-off or status, but as prescribed by doctors.
My articles about my vein thrombosis and long
Therefore, it is important for me:

  • comfortable seating
  • personal space
  • in-flight warm-up space

I won't waste my time describing the seating, the space, the personal space.
I just address those who are interested in
One to one
No..., well, I thought there would be some tricks - after all, this is a new plane and from a different manufacturer
No
Everything is one in one: layout, tables, drawers, monitor, remote control, set of films, seat control buttons
The same as in

Therefore, I draw conclusions:
– Qatar Airways ordered identical cabins for the 787 and 350 from the same office (like a design studio for airplane cabins)
Because I don’t believe that Airbus Industries stole the interior design from Boeing. Probably the interior of the plane is made by separate guys

As a passenger, it doesn’t matter to me how much composite material is in the wing or how much kerosene the plane burns or how much carbon it spits out.
It is important for me to have a convenient, comfortable place.
Decent (not intrusive) service.
And so that after an 8-hour flight I feel satisfactory, and not so that they beat me up and then run over me with a steam roller
That’s why I’m writing a review not about the efficiency of the new A350, but about its convenience for passengers. How much money he will save the Cathars - I don’t care

Service on board the A350

Magic tricks and striptease are not shown, sparklers are not attached to bottles of champagne.
Regular service for Qatar Airways Business Class regardless of aircraft:
– we flew to Doha on an A320 and the business had the same wine list.
The menu, of course, differs, but not depending on which plane, but on the time and duration of the flight:
– the evening flight has dinner, the night flight has a night set and breakfast, the day flight has lunch

You can see about the menu and selection of booze in my: everything is the same.
Although I read on a bourgeois website, as soon as the A350 launched its first flights to Frankfurt, there were dishes on board the airliner from a restaurant with Michelin stars and free Internet on board.

There is a bottle of Vitel in the armrest drawer. During the flight, shadows of conductors ply around the cabin so that if the passenger opens his mouth “Can I...” immediately offer him their services
If you overslept the delivery of food, it will be brought warmed upon request.

Ergonomics of the A350

The cabin is quiet. The noise level is the same as in the Dreamliner.
The A350 accelerates powerfully - just like the Dreamliner
In the air he behaves confidently - just like... well, you get the idea.

The ventilation system is good. The feeling after the flight was like after a night in a capsule hotel - almost rested.
I recommend collagen masks or cream from the set during the flight - the air on the plane is still dry due to the air conditioning

Internet on board the A350

Now the Internet on the A350 flight (as well as on other aircraft equipped with satellite Internet, for example on the Moscow – Doha flight on the A320) is given free of charge for 15 minutes.
If you like it, you can buy additional packages - $5 per hour or 30 M traffic
The screen said that there were some other packages, but I could not find information on them
It was also not possible to connect the laptop to the Internet - only smartphones and tablets connect.
A clear explanation from the flight attendants “Why can’t I access the Internet on my MacBook?” - I have not received

My resume

As I wrote above, I don’t care about the efficiency and environmental friendliness of the A350
All things being equal, if I pay a little more, I choose
First place for convenience passenger seat in business I still have

And so the business class cabin of the A350 is better than in the Qatar Airways B777 or A330, and even more so in small planes
But again, I’ll emphasize: I didn’t notice the difference between the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the Airbus A350... Well, maybe the window shades: on the 787 they are darkened, but in the A350 some blinds are lowered)))

Adding to my review of the new Airbus A350 of Qatar Airways
Based on impressions from yesterday's flight on the route Singapore - Doha, seat 5A
It feels like the plane is already 5 years old: the trim in the business class cabin is falling off and there is a possibility that, for example, a phone could accidentally fly under it

Technical problems with entertainment and cameras
On yesterday's flight the rear camera did not work (this is the one that gives an image from the tail of the plane)
This is general, and in particular such that my entertainment remote control went crazy and misinterpreted the operations on the touchscreen:
– instead of Russian on the menu I had Chinese Mandarin
– the films were in German
In view of this, I turned it off altogether and used my gadgets

Business Class service (applies to Singapore-Doha flight)

Of the three main course options, two were some kind of Arabic meze. Naturally, I chose something edible: meat. But the flight attendant said that the meat had run out
As a result, Ikrinka, who was sitting on 4A, gave me her order (my 5A, that is, it ended in front of me, like in the good old days in the USSR)
On a flight that instead of 7:30 lasted 8:30 (we flew over something in Malaysia), one meal was offered. When I asked for at least a cheese plate over India, I was informed that the cheese had run out and they gave me melted ice cream

Since the plane was late and the connection was short, our luggage ended up remaining in Doha
It's good that we flew away ourselves.
Now today we have to sit and wait for the luggage to be delivered (plans for today are not destined to come true)

5 /5 (14 )

✈5✈
The board has a distinctive carbon livery that symbolizes Hi-tech on the use of composite materials in aircraft construction (more than 50%). Installed on board the A350-900 (MSN002) passenger compartment, as well as “light” test and measurement equipment.

✈6✈
Smile and wave! :) Masha Waves to Airbus:)

✈7✈
This aircraft participated in certification tests related to the verification of all aircraft cabin systems. The aircraft is currently continuing a program of test flights aimed at further improving the performance of the A350-900.

✈8✈

Engineering station on board MSN002:

1. Allows you to evaluate the performance of hundreds of flight parameters

2. Analysis of flight parameters in real time, the ability to send information to the engineering station in Toulouse


✈9✈
When the joy is off the charts! :) Very friendly crew. More on that a little later, but for now...

✈10✈
No, gentlemen, we are not in Domodedovo - we are at the Ramenskoye airfield, UUBW

✈11✈

Passenger cabin A350-900 MSN002

Maximum cabin width: 5.61m

✈12✈
42 Business Class Seats: Sogerma Solstys, 4 abreast, 41-45" seat pitch, 21" seat width, seats recline into a fully flat bed 71-72" long.

✈13✈
210 economy class seats: Pinnacle model from B/E Aerospace. 9 row seats, 31-33" seat pitch, 18" seat width. The chairs are ergonomically designed and have a thin backrest.

✈14✈
A reliable aircraft is in good hands. Meet the charming representative of Airbus in Russia - Maria Shlyakhtova.
100% LED technology: 16.7 million colors for greater passenger comfort and better adaptation to jet lag.

✈15✈

In-flight entertainment system - Panasonic eX3.

Fourth generation entertainment system, image high definition+ large screens in all classes of service.

Broadband Internet access on board (eXconnect), high-speed data transmission via GSM network.


✈16✈

Engines: Rolls-Royce Trent XWB

Thrust: 84,000 lbs

Max take-off weight: 275 tons


✈17✈

✈18✈
-Large panoramic portholes (43X27cm) providing best review during the flight + brighter interior.

✈19✈

A350-900 (MSN002) crew:

South Van Der Stichel

Test pilot

He began his professional career as a test pilot in 1990 at the Test Flight Center in France. He has been working at Airbus since 2000, and in 2007 he was appointed head of the test flight department. Participated in tests of the A380, A400M and A350. He was the pilot of the first test flight of the A350-1000 aircraft.


✈20✈

Sylvan Guiraud

Test pilot

He began his career as a French Air Force pilot in 1990. For a long time he worked at the French Air Force test center, where he took an active part in testing the Rafale military aircraft. During his time in the Air Force, he flew more than 35 different types of aircraft and accumulated more than 4,000 hours of total flight time. He has been working for Airbus since 2016. Performs test flights on all types of Airbus.


✈21✈

✈22✈

Pascal Correct

Test engineer

He has been working in the Airbus flight department for 18 years. He began his professional career with the French Air Force in 1981. His cumulative flight time is 17,800 hours on more than 95 different types of aircraft. Pascal Vernot was part of the crew that flew the first A350 XWB (MSN001) on July 14, 2013. Pascal flew to MAX on an A380 (in 2011 and 2013), as well as on an A350-900 in 2015.


✈23✈

Philippe Foucault

Test engineer

Works in Airbus since 1992. He took an active part in testing the A300MRTT tanker aircraft, the A400M military transport aircraft, and also played one of the leading roles during testing of the A350 and A320neo for operation at extremely low and high temperatures. His total flight time exceeds 4,000 hours.


✈24✈

Mahdi Zedoun

Test engineer

Has been working for Airbus since 2013. He was responsible for the test flight program for the A350 (MSN5), which took part in the 2014 world tour. Currently participating in the A321neo test flight program. His total flight time exceeds 5,000 hours, 3,000 of which are test flights.

✈25✈
And let’s move on to consider the plane itself:

The air in the cabin of the A350 XWB is completely replaced every two minutes.

7 independent temperature zones in the aircraft cabin (8 on the A350-1000) - improved thermal comfort.

A more comfortable and lower pressure is maintained in the aircraft cabin (corresponding to pressure at an altitude of 1,800 m), due to which passengers are less sensitive to pressure changes during takeoff and landing. In addition, the air on board the A350 XWB is more humid, which is especially important on long flights.

✈26✈
The A350 XWB is equipped with a “Gust Damping System”, which makes the flight more comfortable even in turbulent conditions.

✈27✈
Increased volume of luggage racks, which allow you to place up to five standard suitcases on wheels in a row in each rack.

✈28✈
The main pilot rest area is located directly behind the cockpit in the overhead section. It is equipped with two beds, a table, a table and an entertainment system.

✈29✈
In the rear part of the fuselage in the ceiling section there is a rest area for flight attendants. It is designed to accommodate six or seven people (it is possible to install up to eight beds).

✈30✈
The stairs leading to the crew rest area are integrated into the galley modules, saving space in the cabin.

✈31✈
The most modern family of long-haul wide-body mid-size airliners (models A350-900, A350-1000). The A350 family aircraft are distinguished by unrivaled economy and a high level of passenger comfort.

✈32✈
The A350 XWB family is 25% more fuel efficient and has 25% lower cost per seat compared to the 777.

✈33✈
The passenger cabin of the A350 XWB is 12.7 cm wider than that of the Boeing 787. The ability to arrange nine 18-inch seats in a row in economy class.

✈34✈
The A350 XWB embodies all the most advanced technological advances. Over 70% of the structure is made of high-tech materials, including composite materials (53%), as well as new generation titanium and aluminum alloys. Composite materials and titanium are lighter and less susceptible to corrosion and fatigue cracks. Managed to reduce MRO costs by 40%.

✈35✈
An important distinctive aerodynamic feature of the A350 XWB is the wing profile with variable curvature: the aircraft’s wing automatically adapts to a specific flight phase in the best possible way, reducing drag and thereby reducing fuel consumption.

✈36✈
The aircraft is equipped with new generation Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. These are the most efficient engines available today. Reduced CO2 emissions by 25% (the lowest figures for wide-body aircraft).

✈37✈
The quietest twin-engine wide-body aircraft in the world. External noise levels are 21 dB below ICAO requirements (Chapter 4), and cabin noise levels are four times lower than in the 787.

✈38✈
The A350 XWB air conditioning system is equipped with modern highly efficient air purification filters. The air in the cabin of the A350 XWB is completely replaced every two minutes. 8 temperature zones on board - improved thermal comfort. Interior lighting - 100% LED technology: 16.7 million colors to create an unforgettable atmosphere on board.

✈39✈
Russian engineers from the ECAR engineering center in Moscow took an active part in the creation of the A350 XWB: all design and strength calculations for the rear fuselage section, cargo floor, modules for installing systems and cabin interior

✈40✈
A more comfortable pressure is maintained in the aircraft cabin (corresponding to the pressure at an altitude of 1,800 m), making passengers less sensitive to pressure changes during takeoff and landing. In addition, the air on board the A350 XWB is more humid, which is especially important on long flights.

✈41✈
The share of titanium in the aircraft structure is about 14%. Titanium Corporation VSMPO-Avisma is the main supplier of titanium for the production of chassis and engine pylons.

✈42✈
Demand for A350 type aircraft will amount to about 8,100 units over the next 20 years.
Departure to

Everyone knows the feeling when you enter a brand new subway car or get into a car “from the showroom.” But we don’t always celebrate that we’re flying on a new plane. Today I want to tell and show the MOST MODERN, NEWEST passenger aircraft in the world - the Airbus A350, which on Monday, December 22, was handed over to the first customer - Qatar Airways. New cars are produced in dozens a year, and new airplanes appear every 5-10 years, and this is always a new page in history, this is the airplane that we will fly in the next decades.

Airbus A350 will start flying on January 15 regular flights from Doha to Frankfurt, Qatar Airways has ordered 80 (!) A350s and plans to put them on its new routes, incl. and to St. Petersburg. And the first airline to operate the A350 in Russia will be Aeroflot.

The economic efficiency of using the Airbus A350 is up to 25% higher than that of its competitors. But we are passengers, so today I want to show and tell you how much more comfortable and enjoyable a long air flight will be for us. Lower noise level A, higher air humidity, lighter interior and a huge porthole at each window seat. This is what you need not only to be less tired of flying, but also to have FUN! After all, every air flight is always a small holiday! This is exactly how I perceive my next flight, although I fly often.

I have in my hands the most unusual boarding pass! This is the first flight on the day the aircraft is handed over, the Toulouse-Toulouse flight. A wonderful introductory flight for the press and ceremony guests over Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenees. Qatar Airways is not just an ordinary customer, it participated in the development of this aircraft, so from the point of view of passenger comfort, everything must be absolutely perfect.

This is the very case when emotions just go off scale. When you want to note every detail, listen to the noise level, feel the space. Absolutely incredible feeling!

Are you flying?!


The ceremony of handing over the aircraft to the customer took place at the Airbus Delivery Center in Toulouse. Stylish formal ceremony, Qatari artist and opera singer in a dark room with tightly curtained windows.

CEO of Airbus, Qatar Airways and Rolls Royce, manufacturer of the A350 engines.

Watch this five minute video. The story of the take-off of the A350 in one very vivid film.
Someone in the audience even shed a tear of joy :)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0lEVqSW39k

And at the highest chord of the opera, the curtains suddenly opened and from the windows of the huge amphitheater everyone saw a sparkling new liner with a boarding bridge and ready to meet its first passengers!

The first thing that immediately brings you into indescribable delight is space!

The huge space and missing middle row of luggage racks in business class create a very interesting feeling. After all, we are all accustomed to the fact that when we enter the plane, we immediately begin to make our way through narrow corridors to our seat, and no matter whether it’s business or economy class, I have never seen such a bright solution for organizing the internal space in any other plane. The Dreamliner has a similar entrance gallery, but still smaller than the A350. WOW effect already upon boarding.

And yet, with no middle row of luggage racks, each business class passenger can place two standard rolling suitcases on the top bunk! XWB in action :)

Full name Airbus aircraft A350XWB, XWB is eXtra Wide Body.
The cabin width is 220 inches, which allows for nine seats abreast in a 3-3-3 layout.
Each chair is 18 inches wide.
There are 247 seats in economy.
The row spacing is 32 inches.

Pay attention to the section of luggage racks above the middle row of seats; it is raised high enough and “does not put pressure on your head.” Space is used as efficiently as possible. There is a lot of space and you can feel it in comparison with existing ones big planes, even in economy! It would seem that all these are nuances, but this is what creates comfort for you and me!

Let me remind you once again, the interior, seats, upholstery materials, etc. - always ordered by a specific airline.

The chair is very comfortable. On a long-haul aircraft, the seat should be upholstered in fabric; it is less durable, but more comfortable on a long flight. Therefore, when you board a large plane and see leather seats, you know that the airline is saving money on you.

In the Airbus A350 Economy, it is possible to install a personal entertainment system screen with a screen of up to 12 inches. The Qatar Airways A350 has IFE with a 10.6-inch screen. Touchscreen with instant response, remote control, fast WiFi on board. In general, there are a lot of different goodies, but I like to eat and sleep on the plane :)

Map of our flight Toulouse-Toulouse.
The IFE of the Middle Eastern airline also shows the direction where Mecca is located.

The air in the cabin is completely changed every 2-3 minutes! There are 6-8 temperature zones in the cabin, this allows you to maintain a uniform temperature everywhere. You've probably noticed that it's usually warmer in the first rows than in the last ones, since the nose is slightly raised during the flight (of course, this is true for the A320 or B737, but still). So in the A350 the temperature is the same everywhere!

The headrest originally had configured side walls, I like this solution, it is more durable than with a variable tilt. The chair also reclines very noticeably, and the seat moves forward slightly. With my height of 185 cm, sitting in economy is more than comfortable.

Noise level. The cabin is noticeably quieter. Both in business and in economics. I can only compare it to Dreamliner. The A380 has a slightly higher noise level in the cabin.

Big windows! Really big and near every row of seats.
Pyrenees overboard. I’ll make a separate post about the views from the window, because you know how much I love taking pictures from the airplane window :)

Sergei Martirosyan and I aviator_ru And Alexey Sinitsky , editor-in-chief of the magazine Air Transport Review (http://www.ato.ru) on board an Airbus A350:

Pay attention to the thickness of the back of the chair! And this is all a reduction in the total weight, operating costs and, accordingly, the ticket price for you and me.

Mikhail Vakhneev , editor-in-chief of the Internet portal Aviation EXplorer (http://www.aex.ru). For some reason, Mikhail was dissatisfied with the too high luggage racks in the middle row of the economy class cabin :)

Before the flight, Qatar Airways CEO Albar Al Baker walked around the plane:

Latest number logbook on its pages talks about a new chapter in aircraft construction - the A350.

Here's the toilet.

Here the main disappointment awaited me and the only drawback that I noted on board. There is no porthole in the toilet!
At the beginning of the month, I flew for the first time on a Dreamliner from Madrid to Santiago and was very pleasantly surprised by the porthole in the toilet, there is none here :(

Well, business class :)

Qatar Airways Business Class has 36 seats that fold out into an 80-inch fully flat bed.

The air humidity in the cabin is higher. I didn’t feel this during an hour-long flight, but this moment will allow me to be less tired during long flights.

Entertainment system with 17-inch screen.

There is comfortable conversation space between the middle row seats, but the partition lifts up if privacy is desired.

Remote control for seat recline in business class:

Next to the world's largest passenger aircraft, the Qatar Airways A380.

A350 cockpit and Brent King PIC:

You can always unmistakably recognize an Airbus A350 at any airport in the world by its signature black trim on the cockpit windows, reminiscent of sunglasses. Looks very stylish!

Branded infographics from Airbus, all innovations on one slide from the point of view of the passenger and the operator.
In one of the following reports, I will talk about how the Airbus A350 is made and show photographs from the final assembly workshop at the Toulouse plant.

Traditional HUGE thanks to the Airbus press service and personally to Maria Shlyakhtova for the invitation to this incredible event! :)

See my other reports on aviation topics

The Airbus A350 XWB was created as the aircraft manufacturer entered a new round of competition against competitors. To leave Boeing's products behind, the manufacturer has begun working on replacements for the A330 and A340. What is the difference between the XWB airliner and where are they located? best places salon?

Features of the Airbus A350 XWB aircraft

The abbreviation eXtra Wide Body used in the name indicates the specifics of the model: the interior is spacious. On the Airbus A350, passenger capacity reaches 280-366 people, depending on the seating arrangement. A high indicator does not affect comfort, because the manufacturer relies on the convenience of the client. The airliner is used on long-haul flights, where the amount of legroom becomes a priority.

History of the Airbus A350

The manufacturer admits that the history of the aircraft began with a mistake. In 2000, most airlines used the A330, leaving Boeing's jets behind. When a competitor announced the development of the project, Airbus management did not believe that the stated characteristics were achievable. It announced that Boeing's products were a reaction to their success and did not take action.

But in 2004, airline owners were paying more attention to Boeing's proposal. This became noticeable during procurement negotiations: Airbus products were losing ground, because competing airliners consumed 20% less fuel. The problem could not be solved by modernizing old models, and the designers began creating the Airbus 350-900. The process was delayed due to the fact that the project was criticized by potential buyers, and the concern, which was already launching A380 aircraft, did not have enough funds for parallel development.

The first flights of the Airbus A350 took place in 2013, and by this time the manufacturer's expenses had increased from the planned $5.3 billion to $15 billion. A year later, the company received certificates confirming that even if 1 engine fails, the plane will stay in the air for at least 6 hours.

Airbus A350 XWB interior: video

The main differences of the Airbus A350 XWB aircraft

The main advantages of the Airbus A350 XWB are as follows:

  • To lighten the weight of the aircraft and reduce fuel consumption, the manufacturer used composite materials. 53% of the hull is made from them, 3% more than the Dreamliner: this reduces operating costs.
  • The wings, also made of composite materials, have an area of ​​442 sq.m.: similar characteristics have not yet been achieved in the construction of single-deck models. An innovation was the so-called sharklets - winglets, which replaced the classic winglets.
  • Special attention was paid to the shape of the airliner, which made it possible to reduce friction during flight. The manufacturer claims to have combined tips from nature with advances in science. As a result of the improved performance, the cabin was expanded, so in a compact configuration the seats are arranged in a 3-4-3 pattern.
  • To improve reliability, the chassis design has been revised: a measure necessary due to the use of composite materials. It is equipped with fastenings that evenly distribute the load. The number of wheels on the trolley depends on the aircraft model: for the A350-900 - 4, for the A350-1000 - 6.
  • Innovations in the Airbus A350 also affected the cabin. The developer uses 35 cm liquid crystal displays. He also introduced a new 6-screen configuration, which allows pilots to simultaneously see data from various instruments. The cockpit has 2 central displays, 2 navigation and 2 general information (1 each for the pilot and assistant). Indicators have also been introduced that reflect indicators on the windshield: Boeing was the first to use such an innovation.
  • Avionics changes were a logical continuation of the developments used on the A380. The number of functions has reached 40 (compared to 23 on the previous model). The manufacturer claims that the result was a reduction in the weight of the aircraft and a reduction in maintenance costs. After all, the new avionics replaced numerous processors by almost 50%!

Improving the performance of the Airbus 350-900 was aimed at reducing maintenance costs. This made it possible to make ticket prices affordable for passengers. Reliability has also been added to the advantages, because the aircraft is capable of staying in the air for up to 19 hours without requiring additional maintenance.

Characteristics of Airbus A350 XWB engines

The aircraft is equipped with new engines of the Trent XWB family, and passengers enjoy silence during the journey. Airbus studies have shown that the noise footprint is reduced by 50% and fuel consumption by 25%. According to statistics, to transport 1 person per 100 km, an airplane spends 2.9 liters. fuel. This is comparable to the consumption of a family car.

Airbus A350 modifications

In addition to the main model Airbus A350, the manufacturer produces and develops the following aircraft:

  • A350-1000 designed for 350-366 people, who will be located in 3 classes. The model is designed for flights across the Pacific Ocean.
  • A350-900 capable of transporting 314 people over a distance of up to 15 thousand km. The differences lie in economical fuel consumption and cheap maintenance. Work is underway on a cargo version of the A350-900F and a 900R (essentially a stretched A380 model).
  • AirbusA350 ULR acquired by Singapore Airlines. Aircraft for long-haul flights are planned to be put into operation in 2018. The carrier will purchase 7 aircraft that will connect New York and Singapore. It is planned that the ship will be able to spend 20 hours in the air.
  • ACJ350 will be released for corporate transportation. Although the capacity will not exceed 30 passengers, they will cover distances of 20 thousand km.

By 2018, 154 aircraft had been produced, and they were operated by 17 airlines. These include Delta Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways and Finnair.

Deliveries of aircraft to Aeroflot should begin in 2018.

Technical characteristics of the Airbus A350 XWB

Airbus A350: photos

What does it look like Airbus model A350-900

Photo of the Airbus A350 economy class cabin

Cabin in the business compartment of the Airbus A350 XWB

Cockpit

Airbus A350-900 XWB cabin layout: “Lufthansa”

Lufthansa lines use a layout that allows them to accommodate 48 passengers in business cabin, 21 in superior economy and 224 in economy class. What to consider to choose the best places?

Airbus A350 900 XWB: Lufthansa interior diagram

Find the best seating in the business cabin of the Airbus A350 XWB

All chairs, arranged in a 2-2-2 pattern, can be reclined 180º and relax, almost like in your own bedroom. You will also find a buffet where you can get snacks and drinks. As for the choice of seats, some options are not so comfortable: the 6th and 7th rows are located near the toilets. The 1st row is considered comfortable, but it is located near the buffet: scurrying passengers make it difficult to rest.

"Enhanced Economy" Airbus A350 XWB

Choosing to fly in the Airbus A350 XWB Superior Economy Class, the cabin offers ample legroom (97 cm) and food close to a business sector kitchen. Rows 14-15 are considered comfortable; on the 12th you cannot put under your feet hand luggage during takeoff and landing.

Economy class: how to choose the best seats in the cabin

The compartment includes rows from 16 to 42, and the distance between them is 78 cm; the seats are arranged in a 3-3-3 pattern. When choosing your seats, consider the following:

  • The best location is considered to be at 28 K and 28 A, since there is no chair in front.
  • Couples love to fly on 27 B, C, H or J. The seats are arranged in a 2-3-2 configuration, so neighbors don't interfere with communication. There are also chairs nearby emergency exits, which provides additional legroom. There are some drawbacks, because the retractable tables are mounted on the armrests. This reduces the width of the seats, and the proximity of the toilets causes concern.
  • Seats 27 D, E and G are considered a bad option: their width is reduced due to the pull-out tables fixed in the armrests. Avoid boarding 41 D and G as you will be concerned about the proximity of the restrooms. But the worst options are the remaining seats in the 41st row and the entire 42nd row, because their backs do not recline.

Other seating options on the Airbus A350 XWB are standard. Although you will not receive additional benefits, the carrier assures that the cabin is so comfortable that you will not feel any discomfort even on long flights.

Review of the flight in the Airbus A350 cabin, 02/05/2018, the passenger was flying in seat 8A

I had to spend 10.5 hours in the air, so I was not going to buy an economy class ticket. But “business” was a disappointment: although the chair was comfortable, with many functions, I was bothered by the noise of the engines. In addition, the seat is too narrow: it belongs in “premium economy”. The plane is inferior to Boeing airliners, so next time I will prefer to postpone the trip, but get on the B 787.

Airbus A350 cabin layout: the best seats on Singapore Airlines

On Singapore Airlines flights, the seating pattern is 42 in Business Class, 24 in Superior Economy, and 187 in Economy.

Business class differences: best and worst options

Almost half of the Airbus A350 XWB cabin is dedicated to the “business” compartment; Seats are arranged in a 1-2-1 pattern. The seat can be folded down to create a 198 cm long bed. If you prefer to stay awake, watch movies on the 15.4-inch screen. And to get maximum pleasure, choose the right places:

In general, traveler reviews of flying in the business section are positive; complaints arise only from tall people, to whom the reclined seat seems short.

"Improved Economy" cabin of the Airbus A350 XWB

This sector in the Airbus A350 XWB occupies rows 31-33, and the seats are arranged in a 2-4-2 pattern. If you can reserve seats, choose the 31st row with extra legroom; The disadvantage will be the proximity of the bassinets where parents place their babies. In the 33rd there are not the best seats, since on D and G the tables are mounted on fixed armrests: the width of the seat is reduced.

Airbus A350 XWB Economy Class: Best Accommodations

Economy class seats are arranged in a 3-3-3 configuration; the exception is the 47th row with additional legroom (2-3-2). The only better seats are the 48 A and 48 K, as there are no seats in front of them.

Bad options include row 61, except D, E and G, and row 62, consisting of 3 seats. Since they are located near the partitions, their backs do not recline.

Review of the flight with Singapore Airlines, 04/22/2018, the passenger occupied seat 41D

Although the diagrams mark location 41D as convenient, I disagree. The fact is that flight attendants, entering from the “improved economy”, cannot immediately navigate the different seating arrangement. Girls constantly bumped into my seat, which made it difficult to sleep. They touched my legs, and I was always afraid that the flight attendant would trip and fall.

Conclusion

The Airbus A350 XWB is a family of aircraft that competes with the famous Boeing Dreamliner. Since Aeroflot management has planned deliveries of these aircraft for 2018, we can expect that they will also appear on Russian airlines.

Find cheap plane tickets without leaving your home: