A350 to use older batteries first, for faster approval

[TOULOUSE] Airbus SAS will seek permission to fly its new A350 jet with more advanced lithium batteries only after first using a standard nickel cadmium model in a bid to secure faster approval, said the programme director for the A350.

The two flying A350 test aircraft are still equipped with lithium packs, while the first models to enter into service will feature nickel cadmium. Airbus plans to gain certification of the newer technology about a year into regular commercial operation in 2014, said Didier Evrard, head of the A350 programme.

Airbus had designed the A350 to fly with the lighter lithium packs, but changed track earlier this year after some Boeing Co 787 Dreamliners experienced battery fires, leading to a three-month grounding of the fleet. While the cadmium model is heavier, it is tried and tested, allowing for faster approval.