The initial version of the Airbus A321XLR powered by CFM International's Leap 1A engines has received type certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), preparing the way for the entry into service of the narrowbody airliner at the end of the summer. The European regulator's executive director, Florian Guillermet, handed over the type certificate to A321XLR chief engineer Isabelle Bloy on Friday.
Airbus said it expects to gain certification of the alternative version of the A321XLR powered by Pratt & Whitney's Geared Turbofan later this year.
"Here comes the A321XLR, a differentiated product that brings new value to the market, expanding the possibilities for our airline customers and passengers, said Airbus commercial aircraft division CEO Christian Scherer. “With its long range, the A321XLR enables a host of new direct routes, offering natural growth opportunities to our customers and the traveling public. 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.”
According to Airbus, the A321XLR introduces the flexibility to add capacity, open new routes, or even continue operating existing aircraft during periods of variable demand, according to Airbus. While burning 30% less fuel per seat than its competitors’ previous generation aircraft, the long-range Airbus narrowbody operates at a trip cost of about half that of modern widebodies, it added.
The first A321XLR completed its first flight in June 2022 and has since taken part in a test program involving three aircraft. Airbus has collected orders for more than 500 XLRs.