Airbus Military's initial A330 MRTT for Australia departs for its delivery

The first A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) today began its ferry flight to ready this aircraft for its upcoming delivery to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).  Departing from Airbus Military’s Madrid, Spain facility, the milestone A330 MRTT is scheduled to land at RAAF Base Amberley, Queensland on 30 May, with formal handover to occur in the following days. This A330 MRTT was converted by Qantas Defense Services in Brisbane, Australia – subsequently returning to Madrid for painting and finishing – and is to be joined by a second aircraft in June, with two additional deliveries planned for later this year.  Australia’s fifth and final A330 MRTT arrived in Brisbane for its conversion a few days ago, and will be delivered next year.