Airbus A321XLR completes first flight
17th Jun 2022 | In News | By Michael Tyrrell
The first Airbus A321XLR (Xtra Long Range) has successfully completed its first flight from Hamburg-Finkenwerder Airport.
The aircraft took off from Hamburg-Finkenwerder Airport on 15th June for a test flight that lasted approximately four hours and 35 minutes.
The aircraft’s crew consisted of experimental test pilots Thierry Diez and GabrielDiaz de Villegas Giron, as well as test engineers Frank Hohmeister, Philippe Pupin and Mehdi Zeddoun.
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.
Philippe Mhun, Airbus EVP programmes and services commented: "This is a major milestone for the A320 Family and its 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 will open new routes with unbeatable economics and environmental performance." Entry into service is targeted for early 2024.
The A321XLR is the next evolutionary step in the A320neo single-aisle family of aircraft, with increased range and payload. This aims to create more value for airlines by enabling economically viable services on longer routes than any comparable aircraft model.
The A321XLR will deliver a single-aisle aircraft range of up to 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 May 2022, the A320neo Family has accumulated over 8,000 orders from over 130 customers worldwide. A321XLR orders stood at more than 500 from over 20 customers.
Consider a free digital subscription
If you find this article informative, consider subscribing digitally to Aerospace Manufacturing for free. Keep up to date with the latest industry news in your inbox as well as being the first to receive our magazine in digital form.
