Airbus has reached another major milestone as the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) officially certifies the Pratt & Whitney GTF™-powered A321XLR. This follows the July 2024 certification of the CFM LEAP-1A variant, bringing the highly anticipated long-range narrowbody one step closer to entering airline fleets worldwide.
Christian Scherer, CEO of Commercial Aircraft at Airbus, expressed his enthusiasm for this latest achievement. “The A321XLR already demonstrates its incredible versatility with transatlantic operations. With the GTF-powered variant now certified, even more airlines will be able to introduce this game-changing aircraft,” he said. “Passengers will benefit too, with new direct routes between cities and a more comfortable cabin experience.”
A New Era of Efficiency and Flexibility
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Designed to complement widebody aircraft, the A321XLR gives airlines the ability to add capacity, explore new routes, and maintain service on fluctuating demand markets, all while significantly reducing fuel consumption. Compared to previous-generation aircraft, it burns 30% less fuel per seat, making it one of the most efficient single-aisle jets in the skies.
Inside, passengers will experience Airbus’ Airspace cabin, designed for long-haul comfort across all seating classes.
From Testing to Takeoff
The A321XLR took its first flight in June 2022, launching an extensive flight test campaign with three aircraft. Fast forward to 2024, and the aircraft officially entered commercial service. To date, Airbus has secured more than 500 orders for the A321XLR, reflecting strong industry demand for fuel-efficient, long-range narrowbody jets.
With this latest certification, the first Pratt & Whitney-powered A321XLRs are on track to join airline fleets later this year, further expanding Airbus’ footprint in the evolving aviation landscape.
