A400M Begins Ground Tests Prior to First Flight

In 11/2009, Airbus Military initiated ground tests on its first A400M airlifter; the static tests and engine run-ups were designed to validate all aircraft systems, the turboprop powerplant and flight test instrumentation. The experiments should also have confirmed that the telemetry system, which will be used to monitor flights during later developmental tests, works properly. Once the ground tests were completed, the A400M was slated to proceed to low-speed taxi runs and brakings, followed by high-speed trails with a rejected takeoff at speeds of about 120 kn. The company anticipated conducting the aircraft's first takeoff by the end of 2009. France has been designated as the first customer to receive the A400M.