The Airbus A321XLR powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines has received Type Certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), in a key step towards the planned entry-into-service of the new long-range narrowbody aircraft at the end of the summer.
In a ceremony, Florian Guillermet, executive director of EASA, handed the Type Certificate to Isabelle Bloy, chief engineer for the A321XLR. Certification of the Pratt & Whitney engine version is slated for later in 2024.
“With the certification, we have reached a key milestone,” said Christian Scherer, CEO of the Commercial Aircraft business of Airbus. “The next step is to prepare the aircraft for its first commercial missions with customers worldwide. We look forward to working with XLR customers to support the integration of the aircraft in their fleets.”
The first A321XLR completed its maiden flight in June 2022. This was followed by an extensive test programme involving three test aircraft ahead of the EASA Type Certification. So far more than 500 Airbus A321XLRs have been ordered by airline customers.
The A321XLR is designed to complement widebody aircraft in airline fleets. The range of this single-aisle is intended to give customers the flexibility to add capacity, open new routes, or to continue operating existing routes when demand is variable. Airbus claims the A321XLR burns 30% less fuel per seat than previous generation competitor aircraft, and at roughly half the trip cost of modern widebodies. The new Airspace cabin interior of the A321XLR has commonality with larger Airbus models such as the A350, giving passengers long-haul comfort in all travel classes.
“Here comes the A321XLR, a differentiated product that brings new value to the market, expanding the possibilities for our airline customers and passengers. With its long range, the A321XLR enables a host of new direct routes, offering natural growth opportunities to our customers and the travelling public. It provides airlines with the efficiency of commonality inside the A320/A321 product range and its versatile cabin a range of service possibilities that are just unique. It is quintessential Airbus,” added Christian Scherer.
