The first test flight with passengers of the new super jumbo Airbus A380 has begun. The plane, carrying several hundred volunteers, took off from Toulouse in France early this morning. The lucky passengers for the historic flight were chosen by lottery from among Airbus employees across the world – their task will be to give user feedback on onboard facilities such as seating, air-conditioning and in flight entertainments. Four test flights lasting between seven and 14 hours will take place over the week. The A380, is due to go in service at the end of the year, becoming the largest passenger plane in the world with the capacity to carry up to 800 people in three classes. But delays in production have threatened the financial stability of its European manufacturers.

Copyright © 2012 euronews