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China has announced plans to build a large-capacity ship to transport A380 aircraft parts, Airbus China President Guy McLeod announced here recently during the Zhuhai Airshow.

"Suppliers worldwide have taken part in the development of the A380 program, and China, in particular, is making a very visible contribution. A Roll-On, Roll-Off vessel especially designed to meet Airbus' requirements will be built at Nanjing Jinling Shipyard next year," McLeod said.

The ship, which will be 154 meters long, 24 meters wide and 19 meters deep, will feature the largest-ever door on a Roll-On, Roll-Off vessel. Airbus will use it for the safe and efficient transport of A380 aircraft components from its factories in the United Kingdom, Germany and Spain to the final assembly line in France.

With regard to the project's time frame McLeod said that the vessel's keel-laying is scheduled for February 2003. The ship is scheduled to be launched in August 2003 and delivered in March 2004.

Measuring 73 meters in length with a wingspan of 79.8 meters, the A380 is the world's first fully double-decker airliner. According to Airbus officials, with more seating and floor space than the closest competing aircraft, the A380 will ensure that all passengers have more personal space and will provide unmatched standards of passenger comfort.

The A380 will reduce 15 to 20 percent lower operating costs than the largest aircraft flying today and 10 to 15 percent more range, as well as lower fuel burn, less noise and lower emissions.

The market has already demonstrated interest in the Airbus product. To date, nine customers have announced firm commitments for a total of 97 A380s, including 17 freighter versions. Due to enter airline service in 2006, first metal has been cut at Airbus sites around Europe and assembly of major components is due to begin in mid 2003 for delivery to the final assembly line in Toulouse in early 2004.

Airbus's business in China has been steadily expanding since it first entered the country in 1985. The Airbus fleet in service on the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and Macao has grown to more than 180 from 29 in 1995.