Airbus A330 MRTT
| Company type | Military aircraft |
|---|---|
| Industry | Aerospace, Defense |
| Predecessor | Airbus A330 |
| Headquarters | Toulouse , France |
Area served | Worldwide (17 nations) |
| Products | Military aerial refueling tanker and transport aircraft |
| Parent | Airbus Defence and Space |
The Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) is a European military aircraft designed for both aerial refueling and transport missions, derived from the commercial Airbus A330. Approximately 84 units have been ordered by seventeen nations, with 65 delivered by mid-2025. A related model, the EADS/Northrop Grumman KC-45, was initially chosen by the United States Air Force for its tanker replacement program, which was subsequently cancelled. Airbus asserts that the A330 MRTT commands over 90% of the global air-to-air refueling market outside the United States.
Design and development
The Airbus A330 MRTT is a militarized version of the Airbus A330-200 airliner, engineered to perform dual functions as an aerial refueling tanker and a transport aircraft. Its refueling capabilities include several systems:
- The Airbus Military Aerial Refuelling Boom System (ARBS) designed for receivers equipped with a receptacle.
- Cobham 905E under-wing pods along with Cobham 805E Fuselage Refuelling Units intended for probe-equipped receivers.
- The Universal Aerial Refuelling Receptacle Slipway Installation (UARRSI) enabling self-refueling during flight.
Without additional fuel tanks, it can carry up to of fuel, reserving space for cargo. The wing design incorporates elements from the Airbus A340-200/-300, allowing installation of refueling pods with minimal structural changes.
The cabin can be configured to accommodate as many as 380 passengers in a single-class arrangement or 266 in a two-class setup, with options for VIP layouts or troop transport. For medical evacuation missions, it can hold up to 130 stretchers. Cargo capacity includes standard commercial containers, military pallets, and other equipment loaded through a dedicated cargo door. Two compartments located on the lower deck increase operational flexibility.
An optional crew rest area is available to extend mission duration. Additionally, removable airstairs facilitate operations in locations lacking ground support facilities.
Conversions of standard A330-200 airliners take place at Airbus Military’s Getafe plant in Spain, where military avionics and refueling equipment are installed. The tanker received certification from Spanish authorities in October 2010. The Royal Australian Air Force was the first operator to receive an A330 MRTT in June 2011.
On 30 September 2016, Airbus Defence and Space introduced the first "new standard" A330 MRTT featuring structural reinforcements, aerodynamic refinements that reduce fuel consumption by approximately 1%, upgraded avionics suites, and enhanced military systems; deliveries of this version commenced in 2018.
In 2018, Airbus and Saab jointly proposed an AEW&C variant equipped with Saab’s Erieye radar system to replace the UK’s Boeing E-3 Sentry fleet; however, this proposal was not selected.
Boom operators utilize the Boom Enhanced Vision System, which incorporates a three-dimensional camera providing superior day-and-night visibility and improved ergonomics compared to traditional prone operator positions.
A330 MRTT+
In November 2023, Airbus initiated risk reduction studies for an advanced MRTT variant based on the A330neo, highlighting that production of the A330-200 ceased in 2018 and only a limited number of airframes remain suitable for conversion. The company is investigating integrating probe-and-drogue refueling pods onto the redesigned wing of the A330neo.
This updated model, named MRTT+, was unveiled at the 2024 Farnborough Air Show. Built upon the A330-800 platform and powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the MRTT+ delivers an 8% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor.
Operational history
The A330 MRTT has been procured by multiple nations including Australia, France, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Canada, and NATO through a multinational agreement. Australia was the initial customer to introduce this aircraft. According to Airbus, the A330 MRTT commands more than 90% of the international air-to-air refueling market outside of the United States.
Australia
Known as the KC-30A within the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), these A330 MRTTs are equipped with an Aerial Refuelling Boom System (ARBS) alongside two Cobham 905E refueling pods mounted under the wings. Powered by a pair of General Electric CF6-80E1A3 engines, these aircraft can transport up to 270 personnel in addition to carrying 34,000 kilograms of cargo. Australia initially acquired four MRTTs with an option for a fifth to enable concurrent deployments; this option was subsequently exercised. The fleet is based at RAAF Base Amberley in Queensland and operated by No. 33 Squadron RAAF.
Deliveries commenced in 2011 following delays tied to the development of the refueling boom. The first unit was delivered to Amberley in June 2011, with the fifth arriving in December 2012. While the initial conversion took place in Spain, Qantas Defence Services completed conversions for four additional aircraft domestically in Brisbane. Early operational use revealed some challenges with hose-and-drogue refueling systems reported in 2013.
In August 2013, the KC-30A made its debut as a VIP transport carrying Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. Subsequent orders in August 2014 and July 2015 added two more KC-30As—including one configured for VIP transport—expanding the fleet to seven by 2018. One KC-30A was outfitted with VIP seating and communication equipment in 2016 but continues to serve primarily as a tanker. The 2016 Defence White Paper contemplated further expansion of the fleet to nine aircraft to support emerging platforms such as the Boeing P-8 Poseidon.
On 22 September 2014, an RAAF Air Task Group consisting of F/A-18F Super Hornets, a KC-30A tanker, and a Boeing E-7A Wedgetail AEW&C deployed to Al Minhad Air Base for coalition operations against Islamic State forces in Iraq. The KC-30A commenced refueling coalition aircraft shortly after arrival, with combat sorties beginning on 6 October.
In December 2016, an RAAF KC-30A participated in air-to-air refueling exercises with a USAF B-1B bomber.
By July 2023, reports surfaced indicating that the Australian Government intended to procure two additional KC-30As, which would increase the fleet size to nine aircraft.
United Kingdom
In January 2004, the UK Ministry of Defence chose a variant of the A330 MRTT to succeed the RAF's TriStar and VC10 tankers as part of the Future Strategic Tanker Aircraft (FSTA) initiative. Following discussions with the EADS-led AirTanker consortium, a 2008 agreement was reached to lease 14 MRTTs through a private finance initiative, with operational deployment beginning in 2011. The annual expenditure, inclusive of staffing, amounts to roughly £450 million for 18,000 flight hours—equating to about £25,000 per hour. The fleet consists of two variants: the Voyager KC.Mk 2, equipped with under-wing refuelling pods, and the Voyager KC.Mk 3, which adds a fuselage refuelling unit; none are fitted with the Aerial Refuelling Boom System. All aircraft operate using Rolls-Royce Trent 772B-60 engines.
By May 2014, nine aircraft constituted the primary fleet, while the remaining five served as surge assets available either to the RAF or for civilian market deployment without military fittings. The full complement of 14 Voyagers was delivered by March 2016. In November 2015, one Voyager (ZZ336), named Vespina, underwent a £10 million refurbishment to serve as transport for government officials and members of the Royal Family, offering seating for 158 passengers (100 standard and 58 VIP). This specialized aircraft entered service in May 2016 and has since been employed for official missions, including Prime Minister David Cameron’s journey to the 2016 Warsaw NATO summit. In June 2020, Vespina received a Union Flag paint scheme during scheduled maintenance at an estimated cost of £900,000.
Since RAF Voyagers support only probe-and-drogue refuelling, they are incompatible with RAF aircraft that rely solely on flying boom refuelling systems—such as the Boeing RC-135, C-17 Globemaster III, 737 AEW&C, and P-8 Poseidon. In April 2016, the RAF indicated interest in equipping some Voyagers with booms to improve operational versatility and interoperability with allied air forces.
On 18 November 2022, an RAF Voyager conducted the first-ever military transport flight powered entirely by sustainable fuel, aligning with the RAF’s commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.
United Arab Emirates
In 2007, the United Arab Emirates entered into a memorandum of understanding with Airbus to acquire three A330 MRTTs, formalizing the purchase agreement in February 2008. The initial tanker was delivered on 6 February 2013, followed by the remaining two by 6 August 2013. These tankers are equipped with both an ARBS and two Cobham 905E under-wing refuelling pods; notably, the ARBS incorporates a secondary boom hoist developed specifically for UAE requirements, enabling boom retraction even if the primary mechanism fails. Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines, these A330 MRTTs significantly enhance the UAE’s aerial refuelling capabilities. On 14 November 2021, the UAE expanded its fleet by ordering two additional MRTTs.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia concluded a contract on 3 January 2008 for three A330 MRTTs outfitted with both an Aerial Refuelling Boom System (ARBS) and two Cobham 905E under-wing refuelling pods. In July 2009, Saudi Arabia placed an order for three further MRTTs. The Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) selected General Electric CF6-80 engines to power its A330 MRTTs.
The first Saudi MRTT became operational on 25 February 2013. Subsequently, a follow-up contract was signed for three more MRTTs expected for delivery in late 2014; by August 2013, three had already been delivered. On 10 July 2024, Saudi Arabia ordered an additional four Airbus A330 MRTTs.
Singapore
In February 2014, the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) opted for the Airbus A330 MRTT instead of the Boeing KC-46, securing a contract for six aircraft to succeed its existing fleet of four Boeing KC-135 tankers. These aircraft are equipped with Trent 772B engines and configured to accommodate up to 266 passengers or carry substantial cargo, with a maximum fuel capacity of .
The first MRTT was delivered to Singapore on 14 August 2018, featuring a distinctive livery, and was publicly unveiled during the RSAF’s 50th anniversary parade on 1 September 2018. The entire fleet reached full operational capability (FOC) on 20 April 2021 and is operated by the 112 Squadron based at Changi Air Base (East).
South Korea
On 30 June 2015, South Korea selected the A330 MRTT to enhance its aerial refueling capabilities, with plans by the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) to introduce four tankers by 2020. The initial MRTT arrived on 12 November 2018 following a ferry flight from Airbus’s final assembly facility in Getafe, Spain, operated by a combined Airbus and ROKAF crew. Subsequent deliveries included a second MRTT in March 2019 and a third in July 2019. These aircraft utilize Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines.
Known as the KC-330 Cygnus (ko), this designation was selected via a ROKAF naming contest conducted between November 2018 and January 2019. The chosen name alludes to the Cygnus constellation (Latin for swan), adhering to contest criteria favoring celestial or avian themes.
The KC-330 significantly extends ROKAF’s operational reach over distant regions such as Dokdo and Ieodo, while bolstering overseas deployment capabilities. Besides aerial refueling, it functions as a transport platform for personnel movement, including repatriation of Korean War remains, troop rotations, and emergency evacuations.
Its operational history includes transporting COVID-19 vaccines, facilitating the return of General Hong Beom-do’s remains, supporting Operation Miracle for evacuating Afghan allies, delivering Diesel exhaust fluid amid shortages, providing disaster relief after the 2023 Turkey–Syria earthquake, and assisting in Operation Promise during the Sudan conflict. The aircraft also contributed to firefighting efforts during the 2023 Canadian wildfires, receiving personal thanks from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Moreover, the KC-330 has played a vital role in evacuating South Korean citizens and foreign nationals—including Japanese and Singaporean individuals—from conflict zones such as Israel during the 2023 Israel–Hamas war.
France
France initially planned in November 2011 to procure 14 A330 MRTTs to replace its Boeing KC-135 tankers alongside Airbus A340 and A310 transport aircraft, with an official order announced in 2013. By May 2013, Airbus proposed delivering between 12 and 14 MRTTs. In February 2014, France’s Chief of Staff confirmed an acquisition of 12 MRTTs in two phases: an initial batch equipped with boom and wing refueling pods followed by versions featuring cargo doors and SATCOM capabilities.
On 15 December 2015, France signed a multi-year contract worth €3 billion ($3.3 billion) in November 2014 for eight MRTTs, with deliveries commencing in 2018 and scheduled through to 2025. In September 2018, the Direction générale de l'armement (DGA) expedited delivery timelines by two years aiming for completion by 2023 and subsequently increased the fleet size to 15 aircraft. The first MRTT was delivered punctually in September 2018.
Further expanding its fleet, France ordered three additional MRTTs on 13 December 2018 equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines, an ARBS refueling boom system, and underwing hose-and-drogue pods as part of the third tranche of its multi-year procurement program.
Multinational Multi-Role Tanker Transport Fleet
In November 2011, the European Defence Agency identified air-to-air refueling (AAR) as a crucial Pooling and Sharing initiative aimed at diminishing dependence on US Air Force tanker aircraft. A year later, in November 2012, defence ministers from ten EDA member countries signed a letter of intent to collaboratively acquire a multi-role tanker transport, initiating the Multinational Multi-Role Tanker Transport Fleet (MMF) project. This initiative, led by the Netherlands, sought to establish a European AAR capability by 2020. The Netherlands showed interest in the Airbus A330 MRTT during 2013 as a replacement for its KDC-10 fleet.
By December 2014, negotiations had commenced between most MMF participants and Airbus for NATO-owned MRTTs, with support from OCCAR and NSPA. The initial procurement plan included two MRTTs with options to purchase six additional units. Eindhoven Air Base was designated as the primary operational hub. In July 2016, Luxembourg and the Netherlands placed orders for the first two MRTTs, with delivery planned for 2020. Germany and Norway joined the initiative in June 2017, committing to five more MRTTs along with options for four extra aircraft. Airbus secured a firm contract for five MRTTs in September of that year.
Belgium intended to procure one MRTT as part of an €840 million defence investment package and officially became part of the MMF in February 2018 after signing a contract in December 2017. In December 2017, NATO collaborated with Israel's Elbit Systems to equip the fleet with J-Music electronic countermeasure systems. The Czech Republic entered the MMF in October 2019, while Luxembourg expanded its commitment in September 2020 by funding a ninth MRTT.
As of 2018, Sweden was evaluating participation in the MMF programme. Currently, ten aircraft have been ordered: six stationed at Eindhoven and four located at Cologne Bonn Airport. The initial MRTT was delivered in June 2020; aircraft numbers six and seven arrived in July 2022. The MMF achieved Initial Operational Capability at Eindhoven Air Base in March 2023. Belgium increased its financial contribution by €265 million, facilitating an order for a tenth MRTT signed jointly by the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Norway.
In 2023, the fleet integrated Elbit Systems' J-Music Directed Infrared Countermeasure technology, enhancing defense against heat-seeking missiles through advanced fiber-laser and thermal imaging capabilities.
During disruptions caused by the Gaza conflict in 2023, the Netherlands deployed MMF aircraft to conduct repatriation flights from Israel.
Denmark announced plans to join the MMF in its 2023 Defense Planning documentation and confirmed participation with two refuelling units starting March 2025, potentially leading to fleet expansion. NATO ordered two additional A330 MRTTs in June 2025 for delivery in 2028 and 2029, increasing total aircraft to twelve; Denmark and Sweden officially became programme members at that time. A third MMF operating base is slated to be established in Denmark.
Spain
The Spanish Ministry of Defence intended to acquire two A330 MRTTs in 2016 as replacements for its aging Boeing 707 tankers. Negotiations began with Airbus in 2014 regarding converting surplus orders for thirteen A400Ms into MRTTs. Airbus Defence and Space acknowledged the challenges involved but expressed readiness to engage in discussions.
In September 2020, Spain agreed to purchase three surplus A330 airframes from Iberia, made available due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with plans to convert them into MRTTs. On 12 November 2021, Spain formalized its order for three Airbus MRTTs.
Between 2021 and 2022, two of these aircraft entered service configured for passenger transport; the third was sent directly for conversion at Airbus Getafe. The first A330 MRTT delivery was scheduled for late 2024, followed by conversion and delivery of the remaining two by 2025 and 2026 respectively to ensure uninterrupted operational readiness. Test flights commenced in January 2024. The Spanish Air and Space Force officially inducted its first Airbus A330 MRTT into service in April 2025.
Brazil
On 28 January 2021, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro revealed plans to negotiate the acquisition of two A330 MRTT aircraft for the Brazilian Air Force. By 13 May 2021, the Ministry of Defence had authorized the procurement, which reportedly involved aircraft sourced from the RAF's current fleet. The British military attaché in Brazil confirmed ongoing negotiations in June 2021. Nevertheless, on 27 January 2022, the Brazilian Air Force discontinued discussions with the RAF and initiated an international tender to purchase two A330-200s from the civilian market, with an estimated cost of US$81 million.
Subsequently, on 6 April 2022, Azul Brazilian Airlines was appointed as the supplier by the Ministry of Defence. Specifics related to contracts with Airbus, conversion expenses, and delivery timelines were not disclosed publicly. The transformation into A330 MRTTs will take place at Airbus’s Getafe facility in Spain, where the aircraft will be equipped with Cobham 905E under-wing refuelling pods and Cobham FRU-805E fuselage refuelling units. These planes are slated to be stationed at Galeão Air Force Base in Rio de Janeiro. Additionally, there are plans for VIP transport roles to potentially replace the Airbus A319ACJ for presidential long-haul flights. Prior to conversion, both aircraft carry the designation C-330 and will be redesignated KC-30 upon completion.
Canada
In April 2021, Airbus was selected as the exclusive qualified provider to replace Canada’s RCAF CC-150 Polaris fleet responsible for refuelling and VIP transport duties, outpacing Boeing's KC-46 Pegasus. By July 2022, Canada secured a $102 million agreement to purchase two pre-owned A330-200 aircraft from the International Airfinance Corporation for passenger and cargo operations, with future plans for Airbus to convert them into MRTTs. Initially, the acquisition plan aimed for up to six MRTTs; however, by July 2023 this was expanded to a fleet of nine aircraft—comprising five conversions and four newly built MRTTs—under a contract valued at C$3.6 billion. The RCAF designates these A330 MRTTs as CC-330 Husky, with the first passenger/cargo-configured aircraft delivered on 31 August 2023 in Ottawa.
Indonesia
In January 2018, the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) assessed both the A330 MRTT and Boeing’s KC-46 Pegasus as candidates for a modernization initiative following their acquisition of Airbus A400M Atlas transports. Evaluation criteria focused on compatibility with existing platforms, total life-cycle costs, interoperability with current and future assets, as well as possibilities for funding arrangements and technology transfer via state-owned Indonesian Aerospace. On 5 September 2023, Indonesia’s Ministry of Defense officially confirmed active contracts covering multiple Airbus defense products, including orders for the A330 MRTT.
AEW&CS variant
In 2017, India announced intentions to acquire six airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) ("AWACS") aircraft equipped with aerial refuelling capabilities; Cabinet approval for the first two units was pending in 2020. However, by September 2021, this plan shifted toward converting six Airbus A321 airliners purchased from Air India into AEW&C platforms.
United States
A partnership between Lockheed Martin and Airbus introduced the LMXT version for the KC-Y Bridge Tanker Competition, with the prospect of securing a contract to supply up to 160 tankers. However, by October 2023, Lockheed Martin had exited the competition, leaving Airbus as the sole contender.
Additional Operators
On 27 March 2014, Airbus revealed that the Qatar Emiri Air Force intended to acquire two A330 MRTT aircraft.
In May 2021, Egypt explored the possibility of purchasing two A330 MRTTs as part of a broader agreement involving Rafale fighter jets from France.
Following the cancellation of its KC-46 acquisition, Italy initiated a procurement process in August 2024 to obtain six tanker aircraft, allocating a budget of €1.4 billion.
United States
The US Air Force (USAF) aimed to replace approximately 100 of its oldest KC-135E Stratotankers, excluding the more modern KC-135R models. EADS submitted the A330 MRTT for consideration. Initially, the Boeing KC-767 was selected in 2002; however, this contract was terminated due to corruption allegations.
In 2006, the USAF released a new request for proposal (RFP) targeting tanker aircraft procurement, which was revised in January 2007 under the KC-X program to replace the entire KC-135 fleet. EADS teamed with Northrop Grumman to propose the A330 MRTT under the designation KC-30, competing against Boeing's smaller and less expensive KC-767, which offered lower fuel and cargo capacities. The plan included manufacturing in Mobile, Alabama, which also produces A330 freighter variants.
On 29 February 2008, the USAF selected the KC-30 as its KC-135 replacement, naming it KC-45A. Nevertheless, on 18 June 2008, the United States Government Accountability Office upheld Boeing's protest regarding procurement irregularities, mandating a contract re-tender and casting uncertainty over the KC-45A program.
The USAF reopened bidding on 24 September 2009 with revised specifications. Northrop Grumman withdrew on 8 March 2010 citing perceived favoritism towards Boeing. EADS re-entered independently on 20 April 2010 while maintaining Mobile as its assembly location. Ultimately, on 24 February 2011, the USAF awarded Boeing the development contract; Deputy Defense Secretary William J. Lynn III described Boeing as "the clear winner" based on cost-effectiveness, capabilities, and lifecycle operating expenses spanning four decades.
Model Variants
- A330 MRTT
- An Airbus A330-200 adapted by Airbus Military for aerial refueling missions.
- CC-330 Husky
- Designation used by the Royal Canadian Air Force for an A330 MRTT equipped with two under-wing refueling pods plus an Aerial Refueling Boom System.
- KC-30A
- Royal Australian Air Force’s name for an A330 MRTT featuring two under-wing refueling pods alongside an Aerial Refueling Boom System.
- KC-45A
- USAF designation for an A330 MRTT fitted with two under-wing refueling pods and an Aerial Refueling Boom System; order was subsequently cancelled.
- KC-330 Cygnus
- The Republic of Korea Air Force’s designation for an A330 MRTT that may be configured with or without two under-wing refueling pods plus an Aerial Refueling Boom System.
- Voyager KC2
- Royal Air Force designation for an A330 MRTT equipped with two Cobham 905 under-wing pods primarily intended for refueling fast jets.
- Voyager KC3
- Royal Air Force designation for an A330 MRTT fitted with two under-wing pods and a "Cobham Fuselage Refuelling Unit (FRU)" on the centerline, primarily used to refuel large aircraft.
Operators
By 30 June 2025, Airbus Defence and Space had secured orders for a total of 84 A330 MRTTs, of which 65 had been delivered.
Current operators
- Royal Australian Air Force – 7 actively in service.
- Brazilian Air Force – Acquired 2 former civilian aircraft in 2022 (this order was not reflected in the Airbus O&D report as of June 2025).
- Royal Canadian Air Force – Ordered 9 units (comprising four newly built and five converted aircraft). Eight serve as multi-role tanker transports, while one is configured for VIP transport.
- French Air and Space Force – Placed orders for 15 aircraft, with 13 delivered to date.
- Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force – Ordered 12 aircraft, with 9 delivered by June 2025 for NATO’s Multinational Multi-Role Tanker Transport Fleet (MMF). These planes are registered under the Dutch military and support participating countries including Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Luxembourg, Norway, Sweden, and the Netherlands.
- Royal Saudi Air Force – Operates 6 aircraft with an additional 4 on order.
- Republic of Singapore Air Force – Maintains 6 operational units.
- No.112 Squadron
- Republic of Korea Air Force – Has 4 aircraft in active service.
- 5th Air Mobility Wing
- Spanish Air and Space Force – Ordered 3 aircraft, with only one delivered so far.
- United Arab Emirates Air Force – Operates a fleet of 5 MRTTs.
- Air Refuelling Squadron
- Royal Air Force – Received 14 aircraft (seven KC2s, five KC3s, two configured as KC3s). These are owned by AirTanker Services, which manages or wet-leases units not assigned to RAF missions.
- No. 10 Squadron, based at RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire
- No. 101 Squadron, also at RAF Brize Norton
- No. 1312 Flight, stationed at RAF Mount Pleasant, Falkland Islands – operating one Voyager KC2
Accidents and incidents
On 19 January 2011, an air refuelling malfunction occurred involving a boom-equipped A330 MRTT and a Portuguese Air Force General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon off Portugal’s coast. The refuelling boom fractured near the F-16’s receptacle, snapping back into the underside of the MRTT before detaching at its pivot point. Both aircraft sustained damage but managed to land safely. The involved MRTT was an Airbus test platform intended for the RAAF and was operated by an Airbus crew prior to delivery.
On 10 September 2012, an A330 MRTT’s refuelling boom separated mid-flight over Spanish territory. The boom detached cleanly at a mechanical joint and fell to the ground; the tanker landed safely at Getafe without injuries reported. Investigation traced the fault to interference between the backup boom hoist—installed on UAE-bound MRTTs—and the primary retraction system during testing. Airbus confirmed this failure could not arise during routine operations and introduced measures to avoid recurrence. Spain’s aviation authority imposed precautionary limits on other operators using boom-equipped A330s.
On 9 February 2014, a Royal Air Force A330 MRTT Voyager carrying 189 passengers and nine crew from RAF Brize Norton to Camp Bastion abruptly lost altitude by approximately in just 27 seconds, reaching a peak descent rate of . This occurred while the co-pilot momentarily left the cockpit. Several onboard passengers and crew were injured after colliding with the cabin ceiling. The co-pilot returned promptly, regained control, and diverted to Incirlik Air Base, landing without further issues. Following this event, the entire RAF Voyager fleet was grounded for twelve days until investigations identified the cause: a DSLR camera improperly stowed by the captain became lodged between the armrest and side-stick control, causing unintended inputs.
On 20 June 2025, activists from the Palestine Action group gained unauthorized access to RAF Brize Norton to protest UK support for Israeli operations in Gaza. They applied red paint to two MRTTs using tools including a modified fire extinguisher. Although these aircraft were reported damaged and temporarily grounded, Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard affirmed that RAF operational capabilities remained unaffected.