SYDNEY – Qantas (QF) has reached an exciting moment in its fleet renewal journey, as its first Airbus A321XLR has entered the final assembly line at Airbus’ Hamburg facility in Germany.
This milestone sets the stage for the first Asia Pacific A321XLR’s anticipated delivery in April 2025, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Qantas’ domestic and regional operations.
Significance of the A321XLR
The A321XLR is the centerpiece of the Australian flag carrier’s plan to replace its aging Boeing 737 fleet over the next decade. Qantas has 28 of these next-generation aircraft on firm order, with options for additional units.
The A321XLR promises a range of advantages, including but not limited to extended range, enhanced fuel efficiency, and increased passenger comfort. According to Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson, the aircraft represents more than just a technological upgrade.
“These new aircraft are part of the biggest domestic fleet renewal program in Qantas’ history, bringing significant improvements for customers and career opportunities for our people.”
Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson.
According to the airlines, the A321XLR will initially be deployed on domestic routes and offer expanded possibilities for non-stop services to destinations across Southeast Asia, and the Pacific. With a range of around 8,700 kilometers, 3,000 kilometers further than the Boeing 737, the aircraft is expected to unlock new route possibilities.
Enhanced Passenger Experience
Designed by renowned designer David Caon, the A321XLR cabin is built to enhance passenger comfort. The aircraft will feature 197 seats, including 20 in business class and 177 in economy.
Despite a 13% increase in seating capacity compared to the Boeing 737, there is no reduction in seat pitch, and the slightly wider seats promise a more spacious feel.
Travelers will also benefit from modern amenities such as:
- Larger windows
- Fast, free Wi-Fi
- Overhead bins with 60% more storage space
Engineering and Pilot Training Underway
In preparation for the aircraft’s arrival, Qantas’ engineering team has received nearly 800 pieces of specialized tooling. Meanwhile, pilot training is also progressing, with pilots undergoing up to 60 hours in state-of-the-art simulators. Over the next three years, the airline plans to train more than 240 pilots on the A321XLR.
The A321XLR’s Pratt & Whitney PW1100G-JM engines are expected to deliver quieter operations and improved fuel efficiency, reducing emissions on a per-seat basis.
Say hello to our first @Airbus A321XLR!
The aircraft has now progressed to the final assembly line at Airbus’ Finkenwerder production facility in Hamburg, Germany ahead of its scheduled delivery in April 2025.
Our first A321XLR will sport the rego VH-OGA and will be named… pic.twitter.com/RV1tGntqvI
— Qantas (@Qantas) November 29, 2024
What’s Next?
As the final assembly of its first A321XLR progresses, Qantas is inviting its employees to contribute to naming the fleet after iconic Australian landmarks.
The first aircraft, registration VH-OGA, will carry the name “Great Ocean Road,” symbolizing Qantas’ connection to the vast and diverse landscapes of Australia.
By April 2025, the A321XLR is expected to take to the skies, giving Qantas passengers in the Asia-Pacific region their first opportunity to experience this new aircraft.
Featured Image via Qantas (QF)
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The post Qantas Reveals New A321XLR, First Customer in Asia Pacific appeared first on Aviation A2Z.
