Shenzhen Airlines, one of China's top five carriers, has taken delivery of its first widebody aircraft, an A330-300 following a handover in Toulouse, France. The aircraft which has increased 242 tonnes maximum take-off-weight (MTOW) allows airlines to benefit from additional range and improved operating costs.

Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines, the aircraft is configured in a three-class cabin layout (18 business, 24 premium economy, 267 economy). It will be deployed to launch new international routes. By the end of 2018, Shenzhen Airlines will operate six A330s. Shenzhen Airlines currently operates seven A319s and 80 A320s.

The A330 Family includes Freighter, VIP, and Military Transport/Tanker variants. It is one of the world's most efficient and versatile widebody aircraft with best in class operating economics. To date the A330 Family has attracted nearly 1,700 orders and over 1,300 A330 Family aircraft are currently flying with more than 110 operators worldwide. With an operational reliability of 99.5 percent and various product enhancements, the A330 Family is the most cost-efficient and capable widebody aircraft to date.

Contributed by Airbus