#A321 #XLR #A321XLR #EASA #Certification

Cologne/Toulouse, July 19, 2024 – The CFM LEAP-1A-powered Airbus A321XLR has received its type certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), paving the way for the new aircraft’s entry into service at the end of the summer. The type certificate was presented by Florian Guillermet, Executive Director of EASA, to Isabelle Bloy, Chief Engineer of the A321XLR. Certification of the Pratt & Whitney-powered version is scheduled for late 2024.

“Introducing the A321XLR, a distinctive product that brings new value to the market, expanding the realm of possibilities for customer airlines and passengers alike. With its extended range, the A321XLR opens up a multitude of direct routes that provide natural growth opportunities for our customers and travelers. It offers airlines the efficiency of the features common to the A320/A321 range and, thanks to the versatility of its cabin, a unique range of possible services. It’s quintessentially Airbus,” says Christian Scherer, CEO of Airbus’ commercial aircraft business. “We have reached a key milestone with this certification. The next step is to prepare the aircraft for its first commercial missions with our customers around the world. We look forward to working with XLR customers to support the integration of the aircraft into their fleets.”

The A321XLR stands alongside wide-body aircraft in an airline’s fleet. It provides the flexibility needed to add capacity, open up new routes or even continue to operate existing routes when demand is variable. All this while consuming 30% less fuel per seat than competing previous-generation aircraft, and at around half the cost per trip of modern wide-body aircraft. The new Airspace cabin on the A321XLR will offer passengers long-haul comfort in all classes.

The first A321XLR made its maiden flight in June 2022. This was followed by an extensive test program involving three test aircraft. To date, over 500 Airbus A321XLRs have been ordered.
EASA Executive Director Florian Guillermet presents the type certificate to Isabelle Bloy, Airbus A321XLR chief engineer Photo: EASA

Source: Airbus