Airbus launches mini docuseries “A330neo: The Heir Apparent”

Airbus is proud to announce the launch of its first-ever Airbus Original documentary series. The series launched Monday 24th June via social media and the aircraft.airbus.com website.

A330neo: The Heir Apparent puts the A330neo - the rightful successor to the most popular widebody ever, the A330 - centre stage. The series will focus on the dedication, fervour and commitment of the teams entrusted with the development of this game-changing aircraft, as well as the trust and confidence displayed by the customers who have chosen it.

Each episode is a journey of discovery. The first season will go behind the scenes with engineers, test pilots and designers from Airbus and Rolls-Royce as they delve into the development of the A330neo. 

Episode 1, “Flying the Nest”, sees Vincent Lebas, Airbus’ Head of A330neo Overall Aircraft Design, explain how a double-digit reduction in fuel burn was the driving force behind the design of the aircraft, with particular regard to the aerodynamic efficiency of the new wing and wing/engine integration.

Further episodes will look at the aircraft’s updated cockpit and systems, Trent 7000 engines as well as its award winning Airspace cabin.

We will talk to Chief Test Pilot Malcolm Ridley who explains how Airbus’ philosophy of incremental development combined with today’s cockpit displays and software enable the introduction of many new features and functions into an environment with which pilots will feel familiar and comfortable.

Next up, Rolls-Royce’s Trent 7000 Chief Engineer Paul Sixsmith looks at the challenges of designing and building an engine that surpasses today’s standards of fuel efficiency, noise and emissions whilst achieving an industry benchmark reliability.

And bringing season one to a close, Jochen Werner, Airbus’ VP Industrial Cabin Design, tells us how the comfort, quietness, design and overall ambience of the A330neo’s award winning Airspace cabin create a unique on-board experience, making it a favourite with both passengers and cabin crew.

In a future second season, the series will look at the A330neo from the customer’s perspective - what are the driving forces behind their decision to acquire the aircraft and how does it contribute to and improve their daily operations?