Airbus A321XLR Granted EASA Type Certification
A321XLR with CFM LEAP-1A engines certified July 2024
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has awarded a Type Certificate to the Airbus A321XLR powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines – a long-range variant of the A321neo.
In a statement by Airbus on July 19, 2024, Florian Guillermet, Executive Director of EASA, handed over the Type Certificate to Isabelle Bloy, A321XLR Chief Engineer.
This marks a key step towards the aircraft’s entry into service with airlines later in 2024. Certification of the Pratt & Whitney engine version is expected later this year, according to Airbus.
Focus on Customer Integration
Christian Scherer, CEO of Airbus Commercial Aircraft, stated: “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.”
Strong Industry Response and Efficiency
The first A321XLR completed its maiden flight in June 2022. Three test aircraft have since undergone an extensive testing program. The strong industry response is evident with over 500 A321XLRs already ordered.
Airbus highlights that “the A321XLR sits side by side with widebodies in an airline’s fleet,” offering the flexibility to add capacity, open new routes, or continue operating existing ones during fluctuations in demand.”
Beyond its extended range, the A321XLR burns 30% less fuel per seat compared to previous-generation competitor aircraft, and trip costs are nearly halved compared to modern widebodies.
