Qantas is marking a significant milestone in its fleet renewal program with the commencement of commercial flights for its new Airbus A321XLR aircraft. This move is a crucial step in the airline’s plan to offer more direct, long-range routes and enhance the passenger experience.
The first two A321XLRs, named ‘Great Ocean Road’ and ‘Outback Way,’ are scheduled to begin commercial operations on September 25, 2025. The inaugural flight will be from Sydney to Perth, followed by services on the Sydney-Melbourne route. This will make Qantas the first airline in the Asia-Pacific region to operate this aircraft type.
These new planes are a game-changer for the Qantas fleet, as they are capable of flying up to 8,700 kilometers, which is approximately 3,000 kilometers further than the Boeing 737s they will progressively replace. This extended range will allow Qantas to open up new direct routes to destinations across Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands that were not previously viable with its narrowbody fleet.
Qantas also announced an order for an additional 20 Airbus A321XLRs, bringing its total commitment to 48 aircraft of this type. A key feature of 16 of these new jets will be the introduction of lie-flat Business Class seats on a narrowbody aircraft for the first time in the Qantas fleet. These will be used for longer transcontinental and international routes, providing a premium travel experience on a wider range of flights.
The airline’s larger “Project Sunrise” is also moving forward. Qantas confirmed that the first Airbus A350-1000ULR, which will operate direct flights from Australia’s east coast to London and New York, will enter the final assembly line in October 2025, with deliveries expected to begin in late 2026. This marks a major step toward Qantas’s goal of conquering the final frontier of ultra-long-haul travel.
For more information, you can visit the official Qantas Newsroom:
- Qantas A321XLR Media Release: https://www.qantasnewsroom.com.au/media-releases/first-qantas-a321xlrs-taking-to-the-skies/
- Qantas Project Sunrise: https://www.qantas.com/au/en/about-us/our-company/fleet/new-fleet/project-sunrise.html
Disclaimer
The information provided in this news summary is based on publicly available data and official announcements from Qantas. Dates and details are subject to change based on regulatory approvals, operational requirements, and other factors.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Airbus A321XLR fleet represents a pivotal moment for Qantas, allowing for expanded route options and a more comfortable flying experience for passengers on both domestic and international routes. These new aircraft, along with the progression of “Project Sunrise” and its A350-1000s, solidify Qantas’s position as a leader in long-range aviation and a pioneer in redefining global travel.
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