GRENVILLE, S.C. (Jan. 25)—The new Airbus A380 aircraft, unveiled to the public Jan. 18 in France, will carry tires produced by Groupe Michelin, the tire maker announced.
The tires, built upon the company's NZG technology, are capable of carrying 33 tons at 234 miles per hour while achieving an overall reduction of 792 pounds in the aircraft's total weight, Michelin said.
Airbus S.A.S. and Michelin have been collaborators for nearly nine years. The A380, which will enter airline service in 2006, will seat 555 passengers and cargo capacity of up to 335,000 pounds. A freighter version of the aircraft, the A380F, is expected to begin operations in 2008.