Airbus performed test flight of its newest Airbus A321XLR three years after officially launching the program.
The A321XLR was officially launched at the Paris Air Show on 17 June 2019, with deliveries expected in 2024.
With a new permanent Rear Centre Tank (RCT) the A321XLR offers 4,700 nmi (8,700 km) of range.
"This is a major milestone for the A320 Family and its customers worldwide. With the A321XLR coming into service, airlines will be able to offer long-haul comfort on a single-aisle aircraft, thanks to its unique Airspace cabin. The A321XLR will open new routes with unbeatable economics and environmental performance." - Philippe Mhun, Airbus EVP Programmes, and Services.
A five-person flight crew conducted the first test flight where the crew tested the aircraft's flight controls, engines, and main systems, including flight envelope protections at high and low speeds.
Several lessors and airlines have already placed orders for the aircraft including Indigo airlines which placed an order of 50 XLRs.
The A321XLR prototype is equipped with CFM leap engines which is a successor to the successful CFM56.