During the 1980’s, Airbus was beginning to establish itself as a reputable alternative to the popular American aircraft manufacturers. The manufacturer knew, however, that in order to succeed in the marketplace they would have to offer a longer-range airliner that would share on the success of their short and medium range A320 and A300 airliners. Hence, the A330 and the A340 were developed. The first A340-200 flew on 25th October 1991, with Lufthansa being the first operator of the type. Air France was the initial operator of the longer bodied A340-300. Both A340’s were equipped with four engines for long-range reliability. During this same period, Airbus was also developing the new medium range, twin engined A330-300 that first flew on 2nd November 1992. The French domestic carrier, Air Inter (later merged into Air France) was the first to operate the type. Both the A330 and the A340 operate with Airbus’ advanced technology “fly by wire” system. With both aircraft operating successfully for nearly 30 years now, Airbus is now offering newly improved versions of these successful aircraft.