Hamburg, 30 June 2025 – Qantas has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR, becoming the Asia-Pacific launch operator for the long-range narrowbody. The airline marked the occasion with a playful exchange on X (formerly Twitter).
It began with a cheeky post from Qantas:
“Hey @Airbus, we hear you have an Xtra special delivery for us? 👀”
Airbus responded in kind:
“G’day @Qantas – we sure do! 😉 We believe it’s already on its way… @flightradar24 can you confirm?”
Then came the confirmation from Flightradar24:
“We are following the delivery of the first @Qantas @Airbus A321XLR. The aircraft’s delivery flight takes it to Bangkok, a distance of 4,776 nm – the longest flight by an in-service XLR so far.”
The aircraft, registered VH-OGA, departed from the Airbus final assembly line in Finkenwerder, Hamburg. Its delivery flight to Sydney includes just one stop for crew rest in Bangkok, underscoring the aircraft’s extra-long-range capability.
Qantas’ Fleet Modernisation
The A321XLR will initially operate on domestic Australian routes, before expanding to further destinations in Asia. Configured with 197 seats (20 in Business and 177 in Economy) and powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, the aircraft offers a significant boost in fuel efficiency and flexibility.
This delivery marks a major milestone in the Qantas Group’s fleet renewal program. In total, the group has ordered:
- 128 Airbus single-aisle aircraft across the A320neo and A321XLR families of which 40 A321XLRs (28 for Qantas, 12 for Jetstar)
- 24 Airbus A350-1000 widebodies for ultra-long-haul international operations
The A321XLR offers the longest range of any single aisle aircraft – up to 4,700 nautical miles. To date, Airbus has secured more than 500 orders for the type.
More Than Just a Delivery
Beyond the specs and fleet numbers, the arrival of the A321XLR signals a transformation in how Qantas will serve both domestic and regional international markets. The aircraft’s range, efficiency, and modern cabin make it a game-changer, not just for Qantas, but for the wider Asia-Pacific aviation landscape.
And with a bit of social media flair to mark the occasion, it’s clear Qantas is embracing the future not only in the sky—but online too.
Image Source: Airbus and screenshots of X (formerly Twitter) exchange
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