The first A330neo (new engine option), an A330-900 version, starts its final assembly process at Station 40 on Airbus’ Toulouse, France final assembly line for the popular and versatile A330 widebody product line. © Philippe Masclet

Airbus has commenced the final assembly of its first A330neo, an A330-900, at its Final Assembly Line in Toulouse with the joining of the wings to the centre fuselage at station 40.

As the newest member of the world's most popular A330 wide-body family the A330neo builds on the Family's proven economics, versatility and reliability, set to reduce fuel consumption by a further 14 per cent per seat.

Both the A330-800 and A330-900 feature a new A350-inspired wing with Sharklet wingtip devices for state-of-the-art aerodynamics, incorporating latest-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, and the new AirSpace by Airbus cabin for the latest experience in cabin comfort.

"We have started with a very tight development schedule and are today right on time," says Odile Jubécourt, Airbus Head of the A330neo programme. "I am happy to say we are in good shape to meet the high standards of maturity and reliability our customers expect from us and I want to thank the teams for this outstanding achievement."

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