Though the Beluga may not quite reach the size of the Stratolaunch or Mriya, it certainly earns its "XL" moniker. Let's see just how big the unique model is and what it was designed to do ...

But they have been phased out in recent years by the arrival of the Beluga XL fleet. This aircraft made its maiden flight on 19 July 2018 and entered service with Airbus Transport on 9 January 2020.

It is the gargantuan aircraft that causes delight among plane spotters and is a rare sight indeed - the Beluga XL plane. Known as the Beluga because of its whale-like resemblance, the aircraft ...