Airbus has recently unveiled its sixth BelugaXL, fresh from paint shop, a successor to the previous version the BelugaST. The new jumbo plane has a length of 63.1 meters and a height of 18.9 meters, it boasts a wingspan of 60.3 meters and a capacious cargo hold measuring 2,209 cubic meters the largest among all civil or military aircraft currently in service.
The distinguishing feature between the two versions is the dorsal fin, connecting the vertical tailpin. In the BelugaST, this component is triangular and manufactured as a single part while in the BelugaXL, it is larger and composed of three parts, showcasing a distinct curve in the diagonal.
The BelugaXL also has stabilizing ventral fins that are positioned along the bottom of the aft fuselage, serving a similar function to the dorsal fin.
Additionally, the newer transporter showcases an updated horizontal tailplane, which is one meter larger on each side, while its auxiliary fins on the outer edges of the horizontal tailplane are also raised by one meter compared to the BelugaST.
The Beluga is used for transporting chemical tanks, space rocket components, and large aircraft parts between Airbus’ manufacturing sites, as well as cargo for various companies in different sectors.
The BelugaXL boasts a 30% larger cargo capacity compared the A300-600ST Beluga.
The first BelugaXL entered service in January 2020p, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines.
