As
            a jetliner in the A340 product line, it joins the A340-200, A340-300
            and A340-600 in fully benefitting from Airbus commonality. All four
            aircraft can be flown with the same type rating, while the cross-crew
            qualification concept means pilots can more rapidly qualify for another
            aircraft type within the Airbus flyby-wire product line, leading to
            significant cost savings.
            
            Airbus keeps the A340-500 and the other members of
            its A340 Family updated to meet market requirements and the evolution of
            technology.  This includes state-of-the-art cabin features for
            passengers, along with advanced navigation aids and new capabilities
            such as the electronic flight bag for pilots.