Qantas’ first Airbus A321XLR has officially entered the final assembly line at Airbus’ Hamburg facility in Germany. This marks a major step in the airline’s domestic fleet renewal program, which includes replacing Boeing 737 aircraft over the next decade. The assembly involves key components like the forward and rear fuselage, wings, and the signature Flying Kangaroo tail coming together.
Scheduled for delivery in April 2025, this will be the first of 28 A321XLR planes ordered by Qantas, with purchase rights for more. Meanwhile, QantasLink continues its fleet modernization with the A220, expecting its fifth unit to enter service by the end of December 2024.
Earlier this month, Iberia became the first airline to use the A321XLR commercially. When Qantas introduces this next-generation aircraft, it will be the first in the Asia-Pacific region to offer passengers this experience.
The Airbus A321XLR brings noticeable upgrades, including wider seats, larger windows, and overhead bins with 60% more storage than the Boeing 737. Passengers will also benefit from fast, free Wi-Fi during their flights. The aircraft’s longer range of 8,700 kilometers—approximately 3,000 kilometers more than the Boeing 737—will enable Qantas to introduce non-stop routes to destinations in South East Asia and the Pacific Islands.
Initially, Qantas plans to deploy the A321XLR on domestic routes currently served by Boeing 737s. These aircraft promise not only increased passenger comfort but also improved noise levels and reduced fuel consumption per seat compared to earlier models.
Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson spoke about the importance of the fleet renewal efforts. “These new aircraft are part of the biggest domestic fleet renewal program in Qantas’ history, which is bringing important improvements for customers and career opportunities for our people,” she stated. She also highlighted the A321XLR’s potential to operate efficiently on longer routes while providing a superior travel experience.
Preparations for the Arrival
Qantas is actively preparing for the A321XLR’s introduction. The airline has received nearly 800 new tools for maintenance and engineering and has started extensive pilot training programs. Each pilot undergoes up to 60 hours in a new flight simulator before operating the aircraft. Over the next three years, Qantas will train more than 240 pilots for the A321XLR.
Qantas employees also contributed to naming the new fleet. The first aircraft, registered VH-OGA, will be named “Great Ocean Road” as part of a tradition celebrating Australian landmarks.
Aircraft Design and Specifications
The A321XLR offers a 13% increase in seating capacity compared to the outgoing Boeing 737s, accommodating 197 passengers with 20 business-class and 177 economy seats. Designed by David Caon, the cabin maintains the same seat pitch while providing slightly wider seats for enhanced comfort.
Qantas’ A321XLR aircraft will use Pratt & Whitney Geared Turbo Fan engines, which ensure quieter operations and fuel efficiency. The plane’s ability to fly further opens up new domestic and international possibilities while maintaining environmentally responsible operations.
Production of the A321XLR involves specialist factories across Europe, including those in France, Spain, Germany, and the UK. Assembly at Airbus’ Finkenwerder facility in Hamburg takes approximately one month before engine installation and painting. The Flying Kangaroo tail design is painted first due to its intricate details.
When the A321XLR enters Qantas’ fleet in 2025, it will set new standards for passenger comfort and operational efficiency in the Asia-Pacific region. This addition reflects the airline’s long-term vision to deliver an improved travel experience while achieving greater fuel efficiency and route flexibility.
