The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has issued the Type Certificate for the Airbus A321XLR equipped with Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines. This achievement follows the certification of the CFM LEAP-1A-powered A321XLR in July 2024, setting the stage for the first customer aircraft with Pratt & Whitney engines to enter service later this year.
Christian Scherer, CEO of Commercial Aircraft at Airbus said, "The A321XLR already displays its great versatility crossing the Atlantic in daily operations. With the certification and entry-into-service of the GTF-powered A321XLR, we will see more operators introduce this game-changing aircraft. It is also good news for our customers’ passengers who will benefit from the convenience of new direct city-to-city connections with a heightened level of cabin comfort.”
The A321XLR complements widebody aircraft in an airline's fleet, offering the flexibility to increase capacity, launch new routes, or maintain existing ones amid fluctuating demand. Additionally, it consumes 30% less fuel per seat compared to older competitor models. The new Airspace cabin in the A321XLR ensures long-haul comfort for passengers across all classes.
The first A321XLR completed its maiden flight in June 2022. This was followed by an extensive test programme involving three test aircraft. In 2024, the A321XLR entered into service. So far more than 500 Airbus A321XLRs have been ordered. Globally, 13 customers have selected GTF engines to power 217 A321XLR aircraft, with Wizz Air expected to be the first operator. To date, more than 2,200 GTF-powered aircraft have been delivered to over 80 customers worldwide. The next configuration of the engine, the GTF Advantage, is particularly well suited for the A321XLR, delivering higher take-off thrust and offering even better operating economics.
"The GTF is the most fuel-efficient engine for single-aisle aircraft, and today's certification from EASA is a key milestone for the program," said Rick Deurloo, president of Commercial Engines at Pratt & Whitney. "The GTF-powered Airbus A321XLR will provide longer range and higher payload capability, enabling new route options while reducing operating costs for our customers."
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