Airbus To Start 160-Passenger A220-300 Certification Effort

TOULOUSE—Airbus this year plans to start an effort that could lead to certification of the A220-300 to carry 160 passengers, up from the currently approved 149, says Airbus program chief engineer Jean-Francois Parent.

“There is a strong request from the market,” Parent told reporters at a briefing.

The endeavor would add a second over-wing door on each side, Parent said. The aircraft design was already provisioned for the modification. The escape route also requires dual slides at the location, which are already in place to accommodate the 149 passenger load, he added.

The certification program is expected to last about a year. Airbus is still awaiting a launch order for the higher passenger configuration.

The aircraft maker also is looking for ways to increase time on wing for the Pratt & Whitney geared turbofan. Airbus is exploring enabling airlines to climb at derated power levels to reduce strain on the aircraft, a feature also in works for the A320. The system preserves the ability to use the higher power level if needed, Parent said.

In a related effort, Airbus is looking to enable dual motor start. Airbus previously slowed the procedure in certain conditions to enhance time on wing, and the dual startup will buy back some of the time.

Airbus will also introduce new cabin overhead luggage bins next year with Air Canada that are available to others. They offer greater storage and weight reduction by removing some hinges used on the current systems.

Among other planned upgrades, Parent said Airbus is introducing ability on the A220 and other aircraft to access inflight connectivity through one antenna regardless of which service provider an airline chooses.