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.

Stephen Shankland

June 4, 2013 5:40 a.m. PT

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Airbus A380 on the ground

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?

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Airbus A380 engine intake

The Airbus A380's engine intake dwarfs a security guard at the Farnborough International Airshow.

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Airbus A380 cruising

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.