Airbus BelugaXL (A330-743L)

DepartingPilot 🇩🇪

08 Feb 2026 · © Unknown

Photo is a rotation/takeoff in dramatic, low-visibility conditions, further enhancing rarity and enthusiast appeal.

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Airbus BelugaST (A300-600ST Super Transporter)

Aircraft

BelugaXL (A330-743L) A3ST

Airbus House Livery

Airline

Airbus Transport International

BGA

Manufacturer

Airbus

Insights

Aviation History

The BelugaXL is among the rarest active production aircraft, designed as a successor to the original BelugaST. Vital for Airbus fleet logistics, especially for transporting aircraft components.

Fleet Rarity

Very rare: as of 2024, only six BelugaXLs are active (fewest in any major airliner-related fleet).

Record Flights

Flown oversized cargo, including entire aircraft sections between Airbus facilities. Operates dedicated, short/medium haul routes within Europe.

Safety & Events

No major incidents reported with the BelugaXL as of early 2024.

Future Outlook

All BelugaXLs are currently operational, expected to remain in service for Airbus component logistics for 15+ years.

Specifications

Rolls-Royce Trent 700

Engine

60.3 m

Wingspan

63.1 m

Length

4,000 km

Range

737 km/h

Speed

53 tonnes cargo

Capacity

227,000 kg

MTOW

18.9 m

Height

2 × 316 kN (71,000 lbf)

Thrust

Approaches ICAO Chapter 4 standards (exact dB varies by test)

Noise

Registration not visible; exact individual BelugaXL frame identification not possible.