Singapore sets October 25 for first commercial flight of the A380

After many years in development, the giant Airbus A380 jumbo jet will make its first commercial flight on October 25, flying from Singapore to Sydney, with a return flight the next day. The launch customer for the plane is Singapore Airlines, which said its first A380 will be configured with 471 seats in three classes: economy, business, and what it is calling “Singapore Airline Suites – A class beyond first.” The airline is selling all seats on the first two flights by auction on eBay, with the proceeds going to charities. Bidding will continue through September 10. For details, go to www.singaporeair.com/a380. The airline has not yet announced the first regular schedule for the A380 following the two inaugural segments.