Development of the A300B Wide-Body Twin

The A300B is a wide-body, twin-engined aircraft developed jointly by leading aviation companies throughout Europe and the United States. It has been built for the major intra-European route structures and the short-haul route networks of North America. Engineering of the aircraft maximizes reliability and economy on the exacting short-range operations.

The first A300B off the line flew on Oct. 28, 1972, just 3-1/2 years after go-ahead, and by the end of 1972 had flown 98 h. During 1973, that first airplane will be joined in flight testing by three others, in a program leading to certification by the end of 1973. Initial deliveries to airlines will be made early in 1974.