The countdown has started for the world's first passenger service of the A380 in October. Singapore Airlines A380 will make global aviation history when it flies from Singapore to Sydney on October 25 and returns to Singapore on October 26.

To mark this momentous occasion, Singapore Airlines and Sydney Airport unveiled a countdown clock that would track the number of days until the arrival of the super-jumbo at Sydney Airport.

"Sydney Airport is Australia's busiest airport, and we are pleased to have their support as we usher a new era in aviation. Their enthusiasm for the entry into service of the world's largest passenger aircraft is matched by the support of our many customers. We think this clock is an innovative way to remind people of the excitement of the A380's impending arrival, first to Sydney," said Mr Huang Cheng Eng, Singapore Airlines' Executive Vice President Marketing and the Regions.

Sydney Airport's Chief Executive Officer Russell Balding said Sydney Airport is delighted to welcome the world's first passenger flight of the A380 in October and congratulates Singapore Airlines on this milestone.

"The introduction of the cleaner, quieter and greener A380 is good news for the aviation industry and Sydney Airport," Mr Balding said.

"Sydney Airport has invested more than AU$100 million to be ready for the next generation of aircraft. The main runway and taxiways have been strengthened and widened and new aerobridges built to accommodate these new generation aircraft. It is a wonderful achievement and we are happy to celebrate it with the Sydney Airport A380 Countdown Clock."

The countdown clock is at the main entrance to Sydney Airport's T1 (International Terminal) and will keep thousands of air travellers up to date as preparations are finalised for the landing of the new aircraft.

Singapore Airlines has been working closely with Sydney Airport to bring the first flight to Sydney. All proceeds from the sale of tickets on the first flight will be split evenly among the following exceptionally worthwhile organisations:

• One-third to Singapore's Community Chest.
• One-third split between The Children's Hospital at Westmead, and the Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, both in Sydney.
• One-third to Medecins Sans Frontieres, also known as Doctors Without Borders.

Those interested in pre-registering for notification on eBay auction details may do so by visiting www.singaporeair.com/a380.