Technology
Advanced technology

The A340 brings together advanced materials, a centre of gravity management system, modern cabin systems, a highly-efficient wing, and state-of-the-art avionics to create one of the world’s most capable jetliners.
Its airframe incorporates more than 10 tonnes of composites and ultra-light alloys, resulting in reduced aircraft weight, easier maintenance and an increased airframe lifetime. Advanced manufacturing processes applied in the A340’s production include laser beam welding, superplastic forming and diffusion bonding.
The A340 Family’s modern wing incorporates excellent aerodynamics and high-lift devices for greater efficiency, while the use of a fuel tank in the horizontal stabiliser allows for active centre-of-gravity control during flight – reducing drag and lowering fuel consumption.
Flying smarter
In the cockpit, the A340’s advanced flight deck incorporates Airbus’ fly-by-wire controls, along with an optimised instrument panel for pilots’ rapid assimilation of data. It benefits from continual upgrades to meet market requirements and to keep up with the evolution of technology, including the introduction of improved navigation and surveillance functions, and the use of “electronic flight bags” – the portable information management devices that reduce, or replace, paper-based manuals, charts and other reference material carried by pilots.
Cabin innovation
The A340’s passenger cabin also reflects Airbus creativity. Choices of overhead bins and ceiling designs offer optimised solutions for an improved on-board experience, while the innovative use of cabin space can include bar and social areas, as well as multi-purpose storage zones.
Airbus’ state-of-the-art Cabin Intercommunication Data System uses a touch-screen panel for rapid and simple control of cabin lighting, heating, pre-recorded messages and other cabin-related tasks.
For cabin and flight crews on long-haul routes, Airbus has developed rest area concepts, with these facilities located either on the main deck or in the cargo hold.
Orders & deliveries
| Total orders | 377 |
|---|---|
| Total deliveries | 377 |
| In operation | 362 |
Related news
-
15 November 2012
AJW Capital buys two A340-500s -
8 November 2012
Brazil will require nearly 1,100 new aircraft in next 20 years -
4 September 2012
Meeting the global demand: Airbus’ product line responds to the world’s new aircraft needs from 2012 to 2031
Did you know?

- The A340-600 is the longest-fuselage aircraft in the Airbus jetliner family.
- Airlines have innovative choices in centre overhead bins for luggage stowage: standard bins for greater volume; articulated bins for a higher ceiling; or no bins at all.
- The A340-500 has flown some of the world's longest non-stop air routes, such as Singapore to Los Angeles.



































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17 January 2013
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