The British Royal Air Force’s (RAF) A400M Atlas aircraft has carried out beach landing trials on Pembrey Sands beach in southern Wales.
The trials were conducted for the first time and involved 206 Squadron members and engineers front-line squadron LXX based at RAF Brize Norton.
During the trials, the Airbus-built turboprop military transport aircraft performed take-off, landing and taxiing manoeuvres. The test proved the aircraft’s tactical capabilities on a range of surfaces, including natural surfaces.
In addition, it allowed the military aircrew to practice and hone their skills in flying the tactical airlifter.
The RAF will receive a total of 22 A400M aircraft from Airbus, which are expected to be delivered to the service by the early 2020s.
The A400M Atlas is expected to complement RAF’s existing fleet of C-130J Hercules aircraft.
