Certification clears the way for deliveries of Airbus’ new-generation A330-200F freighter

The A330-200F has received Type Certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency, bringing Airbus’ first dedicated freighter for the mid-size, long-haul cargo market one step closer to initial delivery this summer. 

Certification comes after the freighter's successful 200-hour flight test campaign with both available engine types  – American-based Pratt & Whitney’s PW4000, and the Rolls-Royce Trent 700.  U.S. Federal Aviation Administration Type Certification for the A330-200F is expected in the coming weeks.

Total orders for the Airbus freighter now stand at 66 from 11 customers, including U.S. leasing and service firms Aircastle Limited, Guggenheim Aviation Partners and Intrepid Aviation Group. New York-based MatlinPatterson Global Advisers LLC – which placed a firm order for six A330-200Fs through an affiliate in 2008 – plans for the aircraft to be used by companies within its airline portfolio, such as Varig Logistica in Brazil and Global Aero Logistics in the U.S.

The Airbus freighter made a strong impression in the Americas last month with its debut at Chile’s FIDAE Airshow – where the all-new A330-200F received positive feedback from regional customers – and a visit to FedEx's U.S. headquarters in Memphis.

Based on the proven and technologically-advanced A330 platform, the freighter is well positioned as the global cargo market shows signs of recovery. Moreover, thanks to design optimisation, the aircraft's payload capability has been increased by one tonne to 70 tonnes.