Airbus Industrie used the A300 airframe as the basis for the Beluga, which is used to transport large components around the various manufacturing sites. In the background are two of the Super Guppy aircraft that the A300-600STs replaced.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Aero Spacelines B-377 Guppy - СШАUSA - 1962Airbus A300ST Beluga - InternationalInternational - 1994

October 28, 1972, marked the beginning of a new era as the first aircraft produced by Airbus Industrie took to the skies. The aircraft in question was A300, F-WUAB, which is pictured departing on its maiden flight.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Airbus A300 - InternationalInternational - 1972

Airbus even managed to secure A300 orders from what could be considered the toughest of markets for a European manufacturer to succeed - the US. The now defunct Eastern Airlines was the first US carrier to operate the A300, with others following suit. Pictured is an American Airlines A300-600R about to depart London's Heathrow Airport.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Airbus A300 - InternationalInternational - 1972

Plentiful numbers of Airbus A300s are still being used by airlines around the world. This A300-600R belongs to China Eastern Airlines and is one of 12 in its fleet.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Airbus A300 - InternationalInternational - 1972

Iberia was one of a number of European flag-carriers to order A300s. This is a '-B4 variant that was delivered to the Spanish airline on February 2, 1982.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Airbus A300 - InternationalInternational - 1972

To meet South African Airways' requirement for an aircraft that could operate in 'hot and high' conditions Airbus used the heavier '-B4’s Kruger flaps on what it termed the '-B2K variant.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Airbus A300 - InternationalInternational - 1972

Airbus A300s have gained a good reputation as freighters, and orders for these variants have kept the type in production in recent years. This DHL A300-B4 is pictured being loaded with cargo containers at East Midlands Airport.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Airbus A300 - InternationalInternational - 1972