Airbus picks up 60 orders for A321XLRs

United Airlines orders 50; Chile’s SKY orders 10 to expand overseas routes.

United Airlines has placed a firm order for 50 Airbus A321XLR aircraft as it phases out older models and expands transatlantic routes from key U.S. hubs in Newark/New York and Washington, D.C. United plans to take delivery of the first A321XLR in 2024 and expects to begin international service with the aircraft in 2025.

“The new Airbus A321XLR aircraft is an ideal one-for-one replacement for the older, less-efficient aircraft currently operating between some of the most vital cities in our intercontinental network,” said Andrew Nocella, United’s executive vice president and chief commercial officer. “In addition to strengthening our ability to fly more efficiently, the A321XLR opens potential new destinations to further develop our route network and provide customers with more options to travel the globe.”

The A321XLR increases range and payload of the single-aisle A320neo/A321neo aircraft family, offering up to 4,700nm range with 30% lower fuel consumption per seat compared with previous-generation jets. Combining the A321neo’s two rear center fuel tanks into one adds fuel capacity and reduces structural weight. Other significant changes include structural reinforcements and modified landing gear for the increased maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 101 tonnes, increased braking capability, higher tire speed, and additional flap and slat configurations.

The A321XLR has more than 90% commonality with the A321neo, operating with the same crew, engines, and cabin. With the Airbus Cabin Flex fuselage, the A321XLR will accommodate seating classes and configurations suitable for longer flights.

Chilean-based ultra-low-cost carrier SKY has signed a Purchase Agreement with Airbus for 10 A321XLRs.

“This new aircraft fleet will allow us to expand our offer of international and wide-ranging routes,” said SKY CEO Holger Paulmann.

The A321XLR will allow SKY to offer its customers direct flights from Santiago, Chile to Miami, Florida.

SKY also selected Airbus for flight training, making the airline the launch customer for the new Airbus Chile Training Centre with its A320 simulator.

The airline’s fleet of 23 A320 family aircraft serves national and international routes connecting Chile to Argentina, Brazil, Peru, and Uruguay.