Qantas marked a major milestone on September 25, with the launch of its first two Airbus A321XLR aircraft, which entered service on their inaugural commercial flights. The aircraft, named ‘Great Ocean Road’ (VH-OGA) and ‘Outback Way’ (VH-OGB), commenced operations between Sydney and Melbourne, and Sydney and Perth respectively.
The occasion was notable as Qantas has become the first airline in the Asia-Pacific region, and only the fourth worldwide, to operate the next-generation A321XLR. The arrival of this aircraft type represents a significant step forward in the airline’s fleet renewal programme and in its efforts to improve both customer experience and environmental performance.
The A321XLR offers a longer and wider cabin than earlier narrowbody aircraft, delivering greater comfort for passengers. Wider seats, higher ceilings, larger windows and fast, complimentary Wi-Fi form part of the onboard enhancements. The aircraft also provides space for around 60 per cent more cabin baggage compared to the Boeing 737s it will replace. In addition, the A321XLR uses less fuel per seat, contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions in line with Qantas’ sustainability commitments.
Qantas’ fleet of A321XLRs will continue to expand, with a third aircraft due in November and the total growing to seven by June 2026. Looking further ahead, in August the airline announced an additional order for 20 of the type, including 16 configured with lie-flat business-class seats to serve transcontinental routes and selected short- to medium-haul international services.
This latest purchase brings Qantas’ total A321XLR order to 48 aircraft. The model forms a central element of the Qantas Group’s largest-ever fleet renewal programme, which encompasses more than 200 aircraft on firm order, alongside purchase rights with both Airbus and Boeing. This extensive programme provides the flexibility needed to adapt to future growth and evolving passenger demand.
