Airbus expects to deliver the first A340-8000 in the second quarter of this year, following the conclusion of a 20h flight test programme which began with the maiden flight from Toulouse on 19 December, 1997. The A340-200 derivative has increased weights and two additional fuel tanks in the aft cargo hold, enabling its range to be extended to 14,800km (8,000nm). The identity of the customer is undisclosed, but is believed to be the Sultan of Brunei.
Source: Flight International