The first A350 XWB Airbus equipped with michelin Air X tyres with Radial NZG Technology has been delivered to its launch operator, Qatar Airways. The Xtra Wide Body commercial jet made primarily of composite materials achieved its first ferry flight from Toulouse (France) to Doha (Qatar) on 22th December 2014.
Seventy percent of the A350 XWB is made from lighter-weight advanced materials, including composites (53%), titanium and new generation aluminum alloys. These are primarily built into the aircraft’s main structural components such as the wings and fuselage. In this way, composite and carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) materials serve to reduce weight and thereby lower fuel consumption by a claimed 25% as well as reducing the maintenance cost of the aircraft.
Frank Moreau, Michelin Aircraft Tire Company’s President said, “Michelin worked hand in hand with Airbus on this aircraft. Michelin is committed to providing innovation for safety and business efficiency.”
Michelin Radial NZG Technology has enabled Michelin to offer a new line of better performing, lower weight aircraft tires certified for the A350 XWB models. Compared to an equivalent radial nylon tire, the new Michelin Radial NZG Technology tire is lighter, delivers up to 30% more landings, improves Foreign Objects Damage resistance leading to a reduction in unscheduled maintenance and increases the tire load carrying capacity. In effect, eight, MICHELIN Radial NZG Technology Tires can carry the same load as nine standard radial tires. This leads to improved business efficiency for airlines and private operators flying the A350 XWB.
