Maiden flight for Airbus’ brand new A321XLR long range jet

The very first flight of Airbus’ A321XLR has taken place today, Wednesday, June 15th.

The long-range variant A321XLR took off from the Hamburg-Finkenwerder Airport plant just after 9am for the first-ever flight.

The test flight which lasted approximately four hours and 35 minutes .

The aircraft’s crew consisted of experimental test pilots Thierry Diez and Gabriel Diaz de Villegas Giron, as well as test engineers Frank Hohmeister, Philippe Pupin and Mehdi Zeddoun.

During the flight, the crew tested the aircraft’s flight controls, engines and main systems, including flight envelope protections, both at high and low speed.

Described as the future of long-range travel, the wings are of course made here in Deeside at the Broughton wing-making plant.

In a post on social media, Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Guillaume Faury said:

“Fantastic day as our A321XLR takes to the air for the first time – congratulations TeamAirbus!”

“Thanks to our customers and partners who are on board with us making this game-changing aircraft a reality.”

“Many happy landings!”

And liftoff! @Airbus #A321XLR airborne at 11.05 CEST #Hamburg #Finkenwerder @HamburgAviation #avgeek pic.twitter.com/jX6HKU89Vm

— Andreas Spaeth (@SpaethFlies) June 15, 2022

Philippe Mhun, Airbus EVP Programmes and Services stated: “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.” Entry into service is targeted for early 2024.”

Welcome back to @Airbus #Finkenwerder #A321XLR after first flight of 3:45mins #avgeek pic.twitter.com/qvzYdwCr3M

— Andreas Spaeth (@SpaethFlies) June 15, 2022

Airbus said: “The A321XLR is the next evolutionary step in the A320neo single-aisle Family of aircraft, meeting market requirements for increased range and payload, creating more value for airlines by enabling economically viable services on longer routes than any comparable aircraft model.”

“The A321XLR will deliver an unprecedented single-aisle aircraft range of up to 4,700nm (8700 km), with 30% lower fuel consumption per seat compared to previous-generation aircraft, as well as reduced NOx emissions and noise. By the end of May 2022, the A320neo Family has accumulated over 8,000 orders from over 130 customers worldwide. A321XLR orders stood at more than 500 from over 20 customers.”