F-WXWB

F-WXWB (manufacturer serial number MSN001) is the first flight-test prototype of the Airbus A350 XWB program. It is an A350-900 wide-body aircraft manufactured by Airbus and registered in France. The aircraft has been used as a primary development and certification platform for the A350 program and remains in service with Airbus for testing and evaluation purposes.

Development and testing

F-WXWB was assembled at Airbus facilities in Toulouse, France, as the first complete A350 XWB airframe. The aircraft conducted its maiden flight on 14 June 2013 from Toulouse–Blagnac Airport, marking the start of the A350 flight-test campaign.

As MSN001, F-WXWB was primarily used for flight envelope expansion, handling qualities evaluation, and systems validation. It was one of several A350 prototypes employed by Airbus to support EASA and FAA type certification.

Operational status

Following the certification of the A350 XWB in 2014, F-WXWB remained under Airbus ownership. Unlike later prototypes that were retired or preserved, the aircraft has continued to operate intermittently in support of ongoing testing, research, and demonstration activities related to the A350 program.

The continued operation of F-WXWB reflects its role as a long-term development asset rather than a production aircraft delivered to an airline.

See also

• Airbus A350 XWB