Manston Airport waved farewell to the British Airways A380 yesterday (Monday, July 29) and welcomed the airline’s new Boeing 787 Dreamliner to continue a period of training for pilots, flight crew and cabin staff.
The 787-8 can accommodate 214 passengers in three classes. Manufactured by Boeing, the American aerospace company, the mid-size, dual aisle, twin-engine jet is quieter, lighter and more fuel efficient than similar sized commercial jets it is designed to replace.
The A380, the world’s largest commercial passenger aircraft, has spent the last two weeks based at Manston, much to the delight of local aircraft enthusiasts.
Charles Buchanan, chief executive of Manston Airport, said: “We have had many people surrounding the perimeter of the airport hoping for a glimpse of the A380 on take off or landing and I hope the 787 will create just as much excitement.
“We are delighted that British Airways chose Manston to carry out its entry into service programme for its two newest aircraft and we hope to be able to welcome them back one day.”
For more information on Manston’s facilities visit www.manstonairport.com