Airbus to Close Beluga Transport Unit: What It Means for the Iconic Aircraft’s Legacy

Airbus Beluga: A Deep Dive into Its Legacy, Uniqueness, and Future

The Airbus Beluga is no ordinary aircraft. Known for its iconic "whale-like" shape and ability to transport oversized cargo, it has fascinated aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike. However, recent developments regarding its fleet have raised questions about its future. Is the Airbus Beluga still flying? What makes it so special? Let’s explore its story, from inception to the current state, and understand what makes this aircraft a marvel of engineering.

What is the Airbus Beluga?

The Airbus Beluga, officially known as the A300-600ST, was designed to transport oversized aircraft parts that couldn’t fit into conventional cargo planes. With its distinct “whale-like” appearance, the Beluga earned its name because of its resemblance to the Beluga whale.

Introduced in the mid-1990s, the Beluga revolutionized Airbus’s internal supply chain, enabling the transport of large fuselage sections, wings, and other massive components between production sites across Europe.

How Many Airbus Belugas Are Still Flying?

As of 2025, Airbus has retired the A300-600ST Beluga fleet from commercial operations under its Beluga Transport unit. The last flight occurred on January 17, 2025. However, not all hope is lost. Airbus is now focusing on the newer BelugaXL fleet, officially known as the A330-700ST. Six BelugaXL aircraft are currently operational, replacing the older models to meet Airbus’s transport needs.

For aviation enthusiasts wondering if the older Belugas are entirely grounded, four A300-600ST Belugas remain stored, with two at Bordeaux Mérignac and two at Toulouse Francazal.

What Makes the Airbus Beluga Special?

The Airbus Beluga stands out for its:

• Oversized Cargo Capacity: The Beluga can carry exceptionally large items that other aircraft simply cannot. This includes entire helicopter fuselages, satellites, and even space station modules.
• Unique Design: Its massive, bulbous fuselage and hinged nose make it easy to load and unload cargo.
• Specialized Role: Unlike standard cargo planes, the Beluga was built for a niche purpose—transporting aircraft parts for Airbus. This specialization gave it a unique edge in aviation history.

Is the Airbus Beluga Bigger Than the A380?

In terms of sheer size, the Airbus A380—the world’s largest passenger aircraft—outclasses the Beluga. However, when it comes to cargo capacity for oversized items, the Beluga is unmatched.

• Cargo Hold Dimensions: The Beluga’s cargo bay is wide and tall enough to carry items up to 7.1 meters in diameter, something the A380 cannot accommodate.
• Volume vs. Passenger Space: While the A380 is designed to carry up to 800 passengers, the Beluga is built purely for cargo, giving it a unique edge for transporting massive payloads.

The Future of the Airbus Beluga

Airbus’s decision to close the Beluga Transport unit reflects economic and operational challenges. However, the introduction of the BelugaXL marks a new chapter in oversized cargo transport.

The BelugaXL, inspired by its predecessor, is larger, more fuel-efficient, and equipped to handle Airbus’s evolving needs. While the A300-600ST Belugas are no longer operational for commercial purposes, their legacy as trailblazers in oversized cargo transport remains intact.

Conclusion: The End of One Era, the Start of Another

The Airbus Beluga may no longer dominate the skies in its original form, but its impact on aviation is undeniable. From its innovative design to its ability to transport cargo others couldn’t dream of, the Beluga remains a symbol of Airbus’s ingenuity.

Looking ahead, the BelugaXL is set to continue this legacy, proving that while one chapter closes, another begins.

Curious to learn more? Share your thoughts or questions about the Airbus Beluga in the comments below!

FAQs

1. How many Airbus Belugas are flying? Currently, six BelugaXL aircraft are operational, while the older A300-600ST Belugas are retired.

2. What is so special about the Airbus Beluga? Its ability to carry oversized cargo, unique design, and specialized role make it one-of-a-kind in aviation history.

3. Is the Airbus Beluga still in use? The A300-600ST is no longer in use for commercial operations, but the BelugaXL is actively flying.

4. Is the Beluga bigger than the A380? While the A380 is larger overall, the Beluga outshines it in transporting oversized cargo.

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