1st all-coach A380 to take the skies

AIRBUS              A380           

Global - Air Austral has confirmed two orders for Airbus' first all-economy A380 that will fly 840 passengers.

So far, buyers of the plane have used the A380 to lure premium passengers as the world's biggest airplane comes fitted with beds and showers in first class as well as a stand up bar. The total capacity for the regular A380 is around 500.

Air Austral however, said it would configure the aircraft for 840 passengers and start using them on services between Paris and the French overseas territory from 2014. The low cost version is expected to help boost traffic, says Gerard Etheve, founder and president of Air Austral. "We are convinced that airplanes with good priced tickets will help explode traffic figures," he said.

The aircraft was reportedly tested for the ability to evacuate over 800 people in cabin emergency tests before entering service.

"Air Austral opens a new chapter for A380 operations. It will operate the A380 with the lowest fuel cost and emissions per passenger of any aircraft available today," said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer Customers.

There are currently 20 A380s in service with four customers, with orders for 202 more from 17 others, Airbus said.

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