Airbus Industries

Airbus Industries has announced the schedule for the commercial launch of its four-engine A340-600 and A320-500 aircraft, both being the higher capacity and extended range versions of the popular A340-300 currently operational. The Rolls-Royce Trent 500 has been selected as the initial engine to power the new aircraft. The launch has been timed for September on getting the appropriate orders. Entry into service is slated for either late 2001 or early 2002.