Airbus has announced that its first A321XLR (Xtra Long Range) has completed its first test flight after taking off from Hamburg-Finkenwerder Airport at 11:05 hrs CEST for a flight which lasted around four hours and 35 minutes.
During the successful test flight, the aircraft’s flight controls, engines and main systems, including flight envelope protections, were tested by the crew at both low speed and high speed. On board were the two test pilots and three test engineers.
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.”
The A321XLR, part of the A320-family of single-aisle aircraft, is the latest evolutionary step and offers a range of up to 4,700nm (8700 km), with 30% lower fuel consumption per seat compared to previous-generation aircraft, as well as reduced NOx emissions and noise. As of May 31, 2022 over 8,000 orders for the A320-family of aircraft had been accumulated, while current orders for the A321XLR stand at more than 500 aircraft from approximately 20 customers worldwide.
