Variant A330-300 takes off with 242 tonne weight limit

The latest variant of Airbus’ A330 – the 242 tonne take-off weight A330-300 – has achieved certification from the European airworthiness authorities (EASA) following a 100 hour flight-test.
Certification from the US authorities (FAA) is also expected soon, and the smaller A330-200 model will follow the -300 by benefiting from the new take-off weight capability. To date, eleven customers have selected their new A330s to have a 242 tonne capability.
Eric Zanin, Airbus’ head of the A330 programme, said: “The latest A330’s maximum take-off weight capability of 242 metric tonnes, combined with various aerodynamic refinements and increased fuel capacity, means that operators will soon benefit from an extended range of up to 500 nautical miles or carry greater payload.”