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Canberra, Australia: In a landmark move, Qantas has launched commercial operations with its first two Airbus A321XLRs, becoming the first airline in the Asia-Pacific region to introduce the model into revenue service. The aircraft, designated “Great Ocean Road” (VH-OGA) and “Outback Way” (VH-OGB), commenced service on 25 September, initially operating the Sydney–Melbourne and Sydney–Perth routes. The names reflect the airline’s tradition of celebrating Australia’s iconic landscapes. Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson noted the scale of preparation required for the launch: “Preparing for these commercial flights has taken an enormous effort, with nearly 350 training flights and more than 40,000 hours of training completed, as well as thousands of pieces of equipment deployed across our network.” Beyond its domestic deployment, the A321XLR’s extended range opens up new possibilities. With a maximum range of approximately 8,700 km, about 3,000 km beyond that of the Boeing 737-800, the aircraft is seen as a bridge between domestic and short-to-medium international flights into Southeast Asia and beyond. Hudson said Qantas plans to roll out the jets on additional domestic and international routes as more units enter service. The two aircraft carry 197 seats in a two-class format 20 in Business and 177 in Economy which amounts to a 13 percent increase in capacity compared to Qantas’s 737-800 fleet (without reducing seat pitch). Notably, the number of Business seats has increased by 66 percent over earlier models. The A321XLRs are powered by Pratt & Whitney Geared Turbofan engines. Looking ahead, Qantas expects to receive a third A321XLR in November 2025, bringing the total in service to seven by June 2026. In August 2025. Earlier Qantas placed an order for 20 more A321XLRs, pushing its total commitment to 48 aircraft. These aircraft form a key component in Qantas’s largest-ever fleet renewal program, which totals more than 200 firm orders plus additional purchase options from both Airbus and Boeing.

Qantas Becomes First Asia-Pacific Airline to Launch Commercial Airbus A321XLR Flights

Aviation Today News Desk / September 26, 2025

Canberra, Australia: In a landmark move, Qantas has launched commercial operations with its first two Airbus A321XLRs, becoming the first […]

Airbus

India, China Lead Airbus’ 2044 Outlook with 43,000+ Aircraft Demand Projected Globally

Aviation Today News Desk / June 16, 2025

Picture Credits: Airbus Toulouse, France: Airbus has significantly revised its long-term aircraft demand outlook projecting a global need for 43,420

Airlines

SriLankan Airlines Adds A330-200 to Fleet, Targets New Routes & More Aircraft in 2025

Aviation Today News Desk / June 6, 2025

Picture Credits: SriLankan Airlines Colombo, Sri Lanka: In a significant step toward reviving its long-haul capabilities, SriLankan Airlines has taken

airbus news

Qantas Becomes First Asia-Pacific Airline to Launch Commercial Airbus A321XLR Flights

India, China Lead Airbus’ 2044 Outlook with 43,000+ Aircraft Demand Projected Globally

SriLankan Airlines Adds A330-200 to Fleet, Targets New Routes & More Aircraft in 2025

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