Airbus A321XLR receives EASA type certification

The Airbus (Toulouse, France and Cologne, Germany) A321XLR, powered by composites-intensive CFM LEAP-1A engines, has received type certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), preparing the way for the new aircraft’s entry into service at the end of this summer. Certification of the Pratt & Whitney engine version is slated for later in 2024.

“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 traveling 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 unique,” says Christian Scherer, CEO of the Commercial Aircraft business of Airbus. “With the certification, we have reached a key milestone. 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 A321XLR sits side by side with widebodies in an airline’s fleet. It reportedly introduces the flexibility to add capacity, to open new routes or to continue operating existing ones when demand is variable — all while burning 30% less fuel per seat than previous generation competitor aircraft, and at roughly half the trip cost of modern widebodies. The A321XLR’s new Airspace cabin will provide passengers long-haul comfort in all classes. 

The first A321XLR completed its maiden flight in June 2022. This was followed by an extensive test program involving three test aircraft. So far, more than 500 Airbus A321XLRs have been ordered.