First Look Inside Qantas’ New ‘Xtra Long Range’ Plane

29.08.2024 - 12:46 / skift.com / Gordon Smith

Qantas revealed fresh details on Thursday about its all-new aircraft. The Australian flag carrier is due to receive an initial batch of 28 Airbus A321XLR planes, with the first arriving in April next year.

They are a direct replacement for the airline’s existing Boeing 737s. The previous-generation jets are due to leave the Qantas fleet over the next decade.

There are high hopes for the new aircraft, which manufacturer Airbus has coined the ‘XLR’ or ‘Xtra Long Range’. Qantas says it will open up new direct Australian domestic and short-haul international routes.

As one of the world’s largest, yet least densely populated countries, Qantas is likely to feel the benefits of the XLR’s improved range. It can fly around 1,500 nautical miles further than the outgoing 737s. The airline has highlighted Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands as possible new markets for the narrowbody jet.

Despite being a replacement for the 737, the A321XLR is five meters (16.5 feet) longer than the Boeing jets it will replace. The larger plane can seat 197 passengers – an increase of 13% in overall seat capacity – with the amount of space between economy seats unchanged at 30 inches.

In line with global industry trends, Qantas is using the new plane to boost the number of premium options. The XLR will have 20 business class seats in a 2-2 configuration, representing a 66% increase on earlier models. The upscale seats will have a pitch of 37 inches and offer a five-inch recline. Other perks include a wireless charging pad, an extendable cocktail table, and adjustable calf-rest and footrest.

The airline says the larger plane will offer a “sense of spaciousness in the long cabin with higher ceilings and large windows.” The XLR is wider than the 737, allowing Qantas to install broader economy seats that are extra cushioned for comfort.

All seats have dual USB A and C charging ports, however, there will not be a physical inflight entertainment system. Instead, Qantas will offer free Wi-Fi and drop-down tablet holders for personal devices.

The airline has extended its collaboration with Australian industrial designer David Caon for the project, with a focus on new materials and colors “to make the cabin feel peaceful and brighter.”

On a practical note, extra-large overhead lockers allow for around 60% more carry-on bags than the 737. This should reduce the likelihood of passengers having luggage seized at the gate and placed in the hold on busy flights. 

Retraining of pilots for the new plane is already underway, with around 240 flight crew due to be trained over the next three years. A further 2,000 cabin crew will also complete conversion training to learn about the new plane.

Commenting on the A321XLR developments, Vanessa