Airbus Beluga XL completes its first loaded test flight

Airbus’ mammoth cargo plane, the Beluga XL, has been spotted over the UK this week.

It’s just completed its inaugural flight test, carrying a set of A350 wings from Bremen to Toulouse for the first time.

Based on an A330 fuselage with a bulbous extension on top, the Beluga XL is the successor to the original Beluga, designed and operated by Airbus to move humongous aircraft components.

Check out the BelugaXL gobbling up those wings in this new video from Airbus.

A330, A350, Airbus, Beluga, Beluga XL, cargo

Matt Harrison

I’m Matt - a communications and design specialist with a love for transport, maps, and great storytelling. Whether it’s rethinking how people experience a bus network, experimenting with marketing ideas, or conjuring powerful comms campaigns, I’m always looking for fresh ways to make an impact.