The European aircraft developers announced that Airbus’ long-delayed A400M military transport will make its very first appearance during the week starting December 7, "weather permitting".

The A400M will replace the old military cargo carrier in several European air forces; however, its development has been determined by series of serious technical faults and its in service data has been extended from 2009 to 2013.

According to the defense reports, some governments have started to tire of waiting for Airbus to overcome the issues, while French and German officials have given the firm till the end of this year to prove that the project is viable.

While talking to reporters, MD and Chairman of Airbus Domingo Urena said, “Ground tests of the first A400M are progressing satisfactorily at our facility. This allows us to anticipate a first flight in the week 50, weather permitting.”

Earlier, it was anticipated that the first test flight will take place in 2008 and that air forces would have had the airframes in services by the end of this year,

But, due to the delay in project, millions of dollara were lost and also forced Airbus to reconsider contracts with several customers.