Airbus ‘beluga plane’ flies over West Country in UK maiden flight

This is the moment the whale-like Airbus BelugaXL completed its flyover the West Country.

The distinctive aircraft, shaped like a beluga whale, flew over the region as part of its maiden UK flight.

The massive transporter flew from the Airbus headquarters in Toulouse in France on Thursday (February 14) afternoon before heading across the Channel.

Dozens of people witnessed the giant aircraft fly over Filton, where Airbus has a factory, as well as over Bristol Airport, Emersons Green and the Severn Bridge

It was headed to Hawarden Airport in North Wales, where it landed earlier this afternoon.

The plane – which like its ST predecessor will transport aircraft parts, including wings made in Broughton - will enter service later on in the year.

The Beluga XL - which first took to the skies last summer - is due to carry out ground tests at the aerodrome until it departs on Saturday.

Earlier today, Airbus announced it will end production of its flagship A380superjumbo, potentially putting UK jobs at risk.