Qatar Airways has brought its first A350 XWB aircraft to Heathrow to help the airport prepare for its eventual introduction.
Developments and improvements on functionalities on the Airbus A350 XWB will allow it to operate up to 21 decibels below the regulatory standards for aircraft of its kind, as well as reducing its carbon emissions.
New, quieter aircraft such as the A350 XWB will help to ensure fewer local residents are affected by noise from Heathrow. Given the popular and competitive nature of Heathrow’s routes, airlines tend to use their newest and quietest aircraft at the airport. In fact, Heathrow’s fleet mix is made up of over 18% more Chapter 4 aircraft, the quietest and newest aircraft, than the global fleet average.
Heathrow and Qatar Airways are coordinating on a long-term plan to provide quieter skies for people around the airport, as outlined in the airport’s Blueprint for noise reduction. Some of the practical steps outlined in the Blueprint include: