Pilot's Post - Airbus A321XLR, on route to certification

Airbus media release

2022.07.24

On 15 June 2022, the first A321XLR successfully accomplished its very first flight. The aircraft is now starting its flight test campaign on route to secure Type Certification in 2023 and entry into service in 2024.

The aircraft took to the skies from Hamburg-Finkenwerder Airport at 11:05 hrs CEST for a test flight which lasted approximately 4 hours and 35 minutes. During the flight, the crew tested the aircraft's flight controls, engines and main systems, including flight envelope protections, both at high and low speed.

The aircraft is now ready to undergo the flight test programme and will be flying hundreds of flight test hours in the coming weeks to progress to completion of all testing and documentation to secure the Type Certification in 2023. Entry into Service is planned for 2024.

Another high achiever in the Family!

This is a major milestone for Airbus and the A320 Family customers worldwide. With the A321XLR coming into service, airlines will be able to offer long-haul comfort on a single aisle aircraft, thanks to its unique Airspace cabin.

The A321XLR is the next step in the evolution of the A320neo single-aisle Family meeting the market demand for increased range and payload, creating more value for airlines by enabling economically viable services on longer routes than any comparable aircraft model.

The A321XLR will deliver an unprecedented single-aisle aircraft range of up to 4,700nm (8700 km), with 30% lower fuel consumption per seat compared to previous-generation aircraft, as well as reduced NOx emissions and noise.

By the end of June 2022, the A320neo Family accumulated over 8,000 orders from over 130 customers worldwide. A321XLR orders stood at more than 500 from over 20 customers.

Aviation Economy
Airlines and Airliners