Aircraft Transportation from Manufacturer to Airline Home Base

New aircraft are often transported from manufacturers' airfields to the airline's home base by air. For key manufacturers like Boeing, delivery airfields such as Paine Field and Hamburg Finkenwerder Airport are commonly used. If the airline has Type-Rated certified pilots, they may handle the flight. Otherwise, the manufacturer or a pool of certified pilots will deliver the aircraft.

Process for New Aircraft

Upon completion, a set of crew from the manufacturer will be at the airfield to receive the aircraft. This is a routine process, with the aircraft being flown to the airline's home base for maintenance and initial setup. For larger aircraft like the Airbus A320 series, a direct flight is feasible. However, if the aircraft is a smaller model like the Boeing 737-800, it may require stops en route due to limited range.

Transportation of Short-Range Aircraft

For aircraft with shorter ranges, such as the Bombardier Q-400 or ATR 72, the transportation process can be more complex. Extra fuel tanks are installed to ensure longer range, and seats are removed to reduce weight. These aircraft may make multiple stops along the way, similar to the Q-400's delivery route from Montreal to Addis Ababa, covering points like Goose Bay, Reykjavík, and Manchester.

Pilot Responsibilities During Delivery

Pilots who have already been trained and certified on the aircraft model typically handle the delivery. This ensures that the aircraft is navigated safely and efficiently. Once the airline accepts the aircraft, ownership is transferred from the manufacturer to the airline. The new aircraft is then ready for use and integration into the airline's operations.

Conclusion

The transportation of aircraft from manufacturers to airlines involves careful planning, including the choice of pilots and aircraft maintenance. Proper certification and training of pilots are crucial in ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of new and second-hand aircraft. This process is essential for the successful integration of the aircraft into the airline's fleet and operations.