The European Aviation Safety Agency has certified the A330-900 for flights with more than 180 minutes diversion time, opening up new routes for aircraft operators.
The ETOPS (Extended-range Twin engine aircraft Operations) “beyond 180 minutes” capability granted by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) extends its potential air diversion distance to around 2,000nm (3,700km).
The approval means that airlines operating the A330neo, which is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, will be able to fly more direct and fuel-efficient routes as well as direct non-limiting routes.
The FAA’s (Federal Aviation Authority) respective ETOPS certification is expected soon from the USA.
The A330neo aircraft family comprises of the A330-900 and the smaller A330-800. As well as the Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the aircraft feature wings with a greater span and Sharklets made of light composite materials. The aircraft have a greater range than the last generation of aircraft, around 7,200nm (13,300km), with a 25% lower fuel consumption.
The A330-900, which was launched in July 2014, received type certification last September 2018.