Airbus claims new aircraft will bring 30 per cent lower fuel burn per seat than previous-generation fleets.

Airbus has launched its longest range single-aisle airliner, the A321XLR.

The new aircraft has been launched in response to market demand for more range and to complement the A321neo Family. Airbus claims the A321XL will create more value for airlines by bringing 30 per cent lower fuel burn per seat than previous-generation competitor aircraft.

Airbus says the aircraft, set for delivery in 2023, will deliver “an unprecedented” Xtra Long Range of up to 4,700nm, which is 15 per cent more than the A321LR.

Extending family’s non-stop reach

A statement issued by Airbus read: “Airlines will be able to operate a lower-cost single-aisle aircraft on longer and less heavily travelled routes – many of which can now only be served by larger and less efficient wide-body aircraft. This will enable operators to open new world-wide routes such as India to Europe or China to Australia, as well as further extending the family’s non-stop reach on direct transatlantic flights between continental Europe and the Americas.”

The A321XLR’s new airspace cabin will offer seats with the same high-comfort as on long-haul widebody aircraft to passengers in all classes, according to the manufacturer. The A321sXLR has been designed to maximize overall commonality with the A321LR and the rest of the A320neo Family.

Airbus’ list of changes include: a new permanent Rear Centre Tank (RCT) for more fuel volume; a modified landing gear for an increased maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 101 metric tonnes; and an optimised wing trailing-edge flap configuration to preserve the same take-off performance and engine thrust requirements as today’s A321neo.

Airbus has stated that the new optimised RCT holds more fuel than several optional Additional Centre Tanks (ACTs), while taking up less space in the cargo hold. This frees-up underfloor volume for additional cargo and baggage on long-range routes.

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