Mixed Fleet Flying for A380 and A320 approved by Japan’s Civil Aviation Bureau

 

                            All Nippon Airways (ANA) is set to introduce Mixed Fleet Flying (MFF) for the A380 and A320 Family following approval by Japan’s Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB). The Japanese carrier is the first operator in the world to introduce the MFF between the two types.

MFF is unique to Airbus aircraft. As a result of flight deck and aircraft control systems, it enables pilots to be certified to operate more than one type from the Airbus fly-by-wire product line on a regular and concurrent basis. At ANA this will enable crews to fly a mixed pattern of short and long haul services.

Airbus commonality extends from the flight deck into the passenger cabin as well, with a maximum use of similar systems, control panels and procedures within the various aircraft families.  The unique level of technical commonality between Airbus fly-by-wire aircraft also streamlines maintenance procedures, resulting in significantly reduced costs.

“We are pleased that A320 and A380 MFF operations were approved by JCAB and that  ANA has become the world’s first airline to introduce it,” said Stéphane Ginoux, Head of North Asia region for Airbus and President of Airbus Japan. “MFF offers airlines increased flexibility and cost-efficiency and has become one of the keys to Airbus’ success. For airlines, the increase in revenue hours flown by pilots due to less standby and downtime results in a significant improvement in productivity.”

MFF also enables airlines to interchange differently sized aircraft at short notice without crew-scheduling difficulties, allowing them to better match aircraft capacity to passenger demand.

 The A380 is the world's largest commercial aircraft flying today, with capacity to carry 544 passengers in a comfortable four-class configuration. The A380 has two full-length passenger levels: a main deck and an upper deck, which are conveniently linked by fixed stairs forward and aft. Overall, its two decks offer an entire deck of floor surface more than the largest twin-engine aircraft, allowing airlines to optimize their cabin offering.

The A380 was designed with passengers in mind. Its improved aerodynamics, advanced flight control technology and commonality with all Airbus fly-by-wire airliners deliver a smooth, stable flight from takeoff to landing. Additionally, its innovative cockpit provides increased situational awareness for pilots – furthering travellers' comfort aloft.

With the latest technology, passengers will enjoy the most environmentally-friendly widebody jetliner in the skies today. Composite materials account for 25 per cent of the A380's structural weight, resulting in an aircraft that efficiently meets the aviation industry's commitment to minimize greenhouse gas emissions – producing only 75 grams of CO2 per passenger kilometre. The A380 also reduces noise emissions with modern engines and its state-of-the-art aerodynamic design, ensuring the aircraft is able to operate at even the most noise-sensitive destinations.

Inside the cabin, relax and enjoy a peaceful environment with acoustic treatment and noise dampening technologies that provide an environment up to three times quieter than the competition. At your seat, take advantage of the in-flight entertainment system with larger screens for all classes and which allows the passenger to stay connected, watch movies, listen to music or play games on demand.

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