NSCBI airport makes history with first arrival of airbus Beluga XL in eastern India
by Aditi VermaIn a significant milestone for eastern India’s West Bengal (NSCBI) Airport recently welcomed the Airbus Beluga XL, the largest aircraft in its series, which stopped carrying essential aircraft components and fulfilled crew rest, Flight Duty Time Limit (FDTL), and refueling needs.
The incident took place at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (NSCBI Airport) in Kolkata and the video went viral on October 9.
Visuals showed the scene unfolding at the NSCBI Airport runway, where the massive Airbus Beluga XL gracefully touches down, its sleek body reflecting the sunlight. As it rolls to a halt, a spectacular water salute erupts, creating an arc of shimmering water that cascades from fire trucks positioned on either side of the runway. The moment is filled with excitement and pride, as airport personnel and onlookers cheer, celebrating the arrival of this extraordinary aircraft, marking a historic occasion for Eastern India.
The Airbus Beluga XL, renowned for its impressive size and capability, made its inaugural landing at Kolkata’s NSCBI Airport, marking a new chapter in the airport’s operational capabilities. As the only airport in Eastern India equipped to handle this massive aircraft, NSCBI is set to become a crucial hub for the transport of essential aircraft components.
This historic flight’s stop was not only pivotal for crew rest and refueling but also highlights the airport’s strategic importance in the region’s aviation landscape. The arrival of the Beluga XL is expected to enhance logistics and support the growing demands of the aerospace industry in Eastern India.
The successful landing of the Airbus Beluga XL underscores NSCBI Airport’s commitment to expanding its services and infrastructure, paving the way for future operations involving large cargo aircraft.