Airbus takes on Boeing with reinforced plastic A350 XWB

Abstract

When Airbus recently launched its A350XWB (extra widebody) competitor to Boeing's B787 Dreamliner, it indicated that the airframe will be 52% reinforced plastic – similar to the B787's 50%. The new airliner will be produced in three sizes, the largest of which can compete with the Boeing B777 twin-aisle widebody. George Marsh reports.