Airbus A300B4-600ST Beluga Die-Cast Model

Known as F-GSTA, first of 5 Airbus Beluga aircraft built.

First of 5 Airbus A300-600ST Beluga aircraft built, F-GSTA was delivered in 1995 as serial number 655. Transporting components between Airbus facilities across Europe, including main fuselage and wing sections, the Beluga can carry what most other aircraft cannot. Active between 1996 and 2021, the aircraft has since been replaced by the newly completed fleet of BelugaXLs, which have evolved to carry 30% more payload onboard. Completing 25 years of operation, the aircraft remains an iconic piece of aviation history for decades to come.

Features:

• Authentic paint scheme, engraved panel lines, printed decals, antennas, and surface details
• Deployed or retracted landing gear
• Opening front loading hatch
• Space to store scale cargo inside
• Display stand included
• Measures 11”l with an 8.75” wingspan at 1:200 scale
• Officially licensed

History and Specifications:
Taking inspiration from Boeing’s Super Guppy aircraft, the Airbus A300B4-600ST Beluga has been an integral part of the manufacturer’s European production and assembly facilities. Featuring 53,000 cu ft of internal space, the aircraft can carry up to 30% of its maximum takeoff weight in payload alone. Modified from their A300B4 design, the affectionately named “Beluga” has one of the largest cargo holds in aviation. Powered by General Electric CF6-80C2AE engines, the Beluga cruises at speeds over 458 mph for up to 2,485 miles, with a maximum takeoff weight of 337,307 lbs. Flying for the first time in 1994 and entering service during the following years, 5 A300-600ST aircraft were manufactured by Airbus. Performing well in their duties, all 5 Beluga aircraft attained at least 24 years of operation. Succeeded by the forthcoming BelugaXL, which can carry 30% greater payloads, the aging BelugaST fleet has slowly been phased out over the 2020s.