Singapore Airlines' A380 lands at Heathrow

History was made today with the arrival of the first commercial flight of the world's largest passenger aircraft, the A380, into London's Heathrow Airport. Singapore Airlines' flight SQ308 landed at 2:50 pm local time with a full load of 471 passengers plus crew.

This first A380 commercial service to Europe follows the delivery of the third A380 to Singapore Airlines on 11 March. Fitted with luxurious suites, award-winning four-abreast business class and a new, more spacious economy class, the A380 allows the airline's customers to travel to London in unprecedented comfort and
space.

Passengers travelling on Singapore Airlines from London to Singapore and on to Sydney will now be able to fly the whole route aboard A380 aircraft.

Marvin Tan, Singapore Airlines general manager for the UK and Ireland, said: "Singapore Airlines is delighted to be the first carrier to operate the aircraft in Europe. Among the distinguished guests welcoming the A380's historic arrival at London Heathrow Airport were Minister of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, Pat McFadden MP and Aviation Minister Jim Fitzpatrick MP.

Mr McFadden commented: "Today's flight represents a significant milestone. The Airbus A380 is a remarkable aircraft - quieter, cleaner, smarter and greener than existing commercial planes. It is a privilege to be here to witness its first ever commercial flight to not just to the UK, but to Europe. The aerospace sector is a very important part of UK manufacturing and this journey is a chance to celebrate the contribution of more than 400 British companies to the A380 programme. I wish the aircraft, the airport and the airline a long and successful future working together."

Singapore Airlines is the first to fly the A380 and has firm orders for a further 16 aircraft and options on six more.

For more information on Singapore Airlines' A380, see the carrier's special website