Rare sighting: Novespace Air Zero G Airbus A310-300 (F-WNOV) prepared for its next parabolic flight to simulate zero gravity.
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Spotter's notes
This A310 is highly recognizable due to its special blue tail, zero-g mission graphics, and the very unusual role it plays in scientific and astronaut training flights across Europe.
Aircraft identity
Registration
F-WNOV
ICAO Type
A310
Model
A310-300
Manufacturer
Airbus
Airline
Novespace / Air Zero G
Livery
Air Zero G / Novespace parabolic flight livery
Military
Civilian
Technicals
Engine
GE CF6-80C2 or PW JT9D (most common on A310-300: GE CF6-80C2A2)
Thrust
241 kN (54,000 lbf) per engine
Wingspan
43.89 meters
Length
46.66 meters
Height
15.8 meters
MTOW
164,000 kg
Range
8,000 km
Capacity
Typically 220-240 passengers; configured for zero-gravity research flights in this case
Cruise Speed
850 km/h
Noise Rating
ICAO Chapter 3 (average ~92 dB on approach)
Location
Airport Code
BOD/LFBD
Airport Name
Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport