Qantas Debuts Advanced A321XLR Aircraft on Brisbane-Sydney Route
On November 17, 2024, Qantas etched its name in the annals of aviation history. The airline commenced operations of its next-generation Airbus A321XLR aircraft from Brisbane Airport, a significant milestone in Australian aviation. Qantas is the first in Asia Pacific and only the fourth globally to operate this state-of-the-art aircraft.
The A321XLR boasts 197 passenger seats, comprising 20 Business and 177 Economy seats. This configuration offers 13% more capacity than previous generation aircraft. Additionally, it provides 60% more baggage space and significantly quieter cabins. The aircraft’s range is approximately 8,700 kilometers, around 3,000km further than the Boeing 737-800 it replaces. This extended range opens new possibilities for medium-haul international routes.
“Qantas has a proud history in Queensland, having been founded in Winton 105 years ago. Hence, bringing our newest aircraft to the state is particularly meaningful,” said Qantas Domestic CEO Markus Svensson. The A321XLR uses less fuel per seat than its predecessor, aligning with the airline’s sustainability goals. Furthermore, it provides enhanced passenger comfort with wider seats, higher ceilings, and free Wi-Fi.
Source: Qantas Newsroom