Airbus delivers first A321XLR for Air Canada

Air Canada received the first Airbus A321XLR leased from SMBC Aviation Capital. The airline plans to take delivery of 30 A321XLR aircraft (15 leased, 15 purchased directly from Airbus) that are expected to enter the fleet over the coming years.

The delivery marks a significant milestone in the airline’s fleet renewal strategy, enabling the carrier to bridge the gap between its narrowbody short-haul and widebody long-haul operations. All will be powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, and the aircraft have 4,700nm of range, as per the statement.

“The Airbus A321XLR introduces a dynamic new component to Air Canada’s growth strategy, greatly expanding our flexibility to launch new international routes and improve our offering on existing markets. Equipped with a quieter, more comfortable cabin when compared to previous generation aircraft, this game-changing aircraft will shortly be deployed across the Atlantic from Montréal and Toronto, while also becoming a staple on key North American transcontinental markets,” said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, and President of Cargo at Air Canada.  

Air Canada’s A321XLR features a two-cabin layout designed for comfort on transcontinental and transatlantic flights. The premium cabin has 14 full-flat seats in a 1-1 configuration, offering passengers direct aisle access, while there are 168 Economy cabin seats. The airline currently operates a fleet of 136 Airbus aircraft and has 61 aircraft on order.