Airbus' A380 roars over Farnborough air show (photos)
Only 30 Airbus A380 jets are in service today, but Airbus did its best to sell more of the 525-passenger, double-decker aircraft by showing them off at the Farnborough air show.
The Farnborough International Airshow begins with five days of commerce during which prospective customers can see what's for sale. Airbus, naturally, is pushing its A380 passenger jet hard. The 525-passenger aircraft made its debut in 2006 and now is entering some commercial fleets.
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Airbus A380 takeoff
The Airbus A380's four engines can deliver up to 70,000 pounds of thrust. This one takes off for spectators and potential buyers at the Farnborough International Airshow.
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Airbus A380 steep bank
Pilots at the Farnborough air show flew the Airbus A380 in a more dramatic way than you'll typically see passenger craft flown. A total of 30 A380s are in service now, with 234 orders placed.
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Airbus A380 scale
Which is bigger, a four-passenger car or an engine on a 525-passenger jet?
Airbus A380 cruising toward spectators at the Farnborough International Airshow. The plane is capable of flying as far as 8,200 nautical miles.
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Airbus A380 angle of attack
The Airbus A380 flies by the Farnborough audience slowly.
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Airbus A380 steep banked turn
The Airbus A380's top is visible as it turns sharply.
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Airbus A380
The Airbus A380, as viewed from the rear. The tail towers 79 feet above the tarmac.
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Airbus A380 turning
The Airbus A380 at the Farnborough International Airshow. The plane has two decks; the lower is a maximum of 21.5 feet wide and the upper 19 feet wide.
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Airbus A380 landing gear
It takes a lot of wheels to support the bulk of the Airbus A380.
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