Airbus Toulouse Factory Tour: What To Expect
A behind-the-scenes to the production of planes
· 4 min read
summary
Are you an aviation enthusiast looking for a unique experience? Look no further than the Airbus Factory Tour in Toulouse, France. This guided tour takes visitors through one of the largest aircraft manufacturing facilities in the world, offering an exciting glimpse into the inner workings of the aerospace industry.
Introduction to Airbus Factory in Toulouse
If you're interested in the aerospace industry, then a visit to the Airbus Factory in Toulouse is probably already on the list of to-dos. This factory has been a significant contributor to the industry since the 1970s, and is responsible for the assembly of some of the most popular aircraft in the world, including the A380 and A350XWB.
The Airbus Factory in Toulouse has a long and storied history. The factory was first established in the 1970s, when Airbus was still a relatively new company. Since then, it has grown and expanded, becoming one of the most important aerospace manufacturing facilities in the world. Over the years, the factory has been responsible for producing some of the most iconic aircraft in history, including the A300, A320, and A380.
Types of Tours
The Airbus Factory in Toulouse is where Airbus is headquartered, and is also a working factory for aircraft production. The area is highly secured and restricted, and to visit the factory, you will have to go on a guided tour. Two types of tours are offered: the Airbus Visit tour, and the Airbus Kids Tour.
- Airbus Visit: Approx. 1.5 hours. Available in French, English, and Spanish. (German, Italian, and Chinese tours are subject to availability and offered for group visits only)
- Airbus Kids: Approx. 1.5 hours. Suitable for families with children between 6 to 12. Only available in French.
Airbus Visit Tour
On the Airbus Visit Tour, you will get to learn more about the history of aviation in Toulouse. Through detailed explanations by your guide, along with engaging visuals and artefacts, you will learn more about the company's origins and growth.
The tour also includes a bus tour of the 700 hectares of the Airbus compound in Toulouse, where you could catch a glimpse of the aircraft that are parked out in the hangar. The highlight of the tour will definitely be the stop at a lookout point of the A350XWB assembly line. Here, you will get to learn more about the production and assembly process involved in the creation of this new generation Airbus aircraft.
While you wouldn't be getting too close and personal with the aircraft, the Airbus Visit Tour would be very interesting and insightful for those who want to learn more what goes behind the scenes in the manufacturing of an aircraft.
Airbus Kids Tour
The Airbus Kids Tour is tailored more to children, introducing them to the world of Airbus and aviation. These tours do not go very deeply into the details, but instead are more interactive and engaging, feeding the inquisitive minds of the young children.
Aeroscopia Museum
While not part of the Airbus Factory Tour, it is highly recommended to combine your Airbus Factory Tour with a visit to the Aeroscopia Museum. Here at the Aeroscopia Museum, there are over 30 aircraft on display. Through interactive exhibits, workshops, and guided tours, you will get to learn about the history and evolution of aviation technology beyond just Airbus. Not only would you get to view the aircraft up close, you will also have a chance to take a seat at on an A380 flight simulator!
What You Need To Know Before Your Visit
If you are planning a visit to Airbus, there are a few things that you should note.
Tours are not offered on a fixed schedule, and the schedules may vary. Check the website approximately two weeks prior to your planned visit to check the available schedules. If you don't find slots for your planned visit, consider dropping them an email to check for availability!
Security is very tight in the compound, and prior registration is required for all visitors. Take note that for non-EU residents, additional time is required for security clearance, so you should submit your registration at least two full working days prior to your planned visit.
During your visit, you will have to stick closely to the route and you shouldn't wander off on your own. Photography and videography are also strictly prohibited.
On the day of your visit, remember to bring along a form of identification! For non-EU residents, your passport would be required.
If you will be combining your Airbus Factory Tour with the visit to the Aeroscopia Museum, you will have to purchase your tickets for the Airbus Factory Tour online. Then, on the day of your visit, let the reception know upon arrival that you would like to get the special package price for the museum. Note that the visit to both compounds have to take place on the same day.
Be sure to dress for the weather. The Aeroscopia Museum's exhibition hall does not have air conditioning or heating.
Getting There
Getting to Toulouse is easy, as the city has direct flights from several major cities worldwide. If you're already in France, you can also reach Toulouse by train from other French cities or by car via the highway system.
From Toulouse, the nearest tram station is the Beauzelle-aeroscopia stop on Line T1. It is approximately a 10 minutes walk to the entrance of the Aeroscopia Museum, where the tour starts.
Practical Information
🗺️ Address: 1 All. André Turcat, 31700 Blagnac, France
🕤 Opening Hours: The Aeroscopia Museum is open from 9.30am to 6pm daily (last entry at 5pm). Airbus Factory Tour depends on tour schedule.