Qantas is celebrating the launch of its newest aircraft today, with its first two next-generation Airbus A321XLR aircraft taking off this morning for their first commercial flights.

The two A321XLR aircraft, ‘Great Ocean Road’ (VH-OGA) and ‘Outback Way’ (VH-OGB), are operating their inaugural commercial services between Sydney and Melbourne and Sydney and Perth respectively.

AirlineRatings was at today’s launch event and will also be onboard the Sydney–Perth service — the very first commercial passenger flight of Qantas’s new A321XLR.

Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson said the A321XLR aircraft represented a significant milestone in the Group’s fleet renewal program.

“Seeing our A321XLRs take to the skies with customers for the first time is a proud moment for everyone involved and testament to the incredible efforts of the teams across Qantas and Airbus,” Ms Hudson said.

“Investing in next generation aircraft is the most significant way we can elevate the travel experience for our customers and our people. We have already seen a significant improvement in customer satisfaction on our new A220s and Jetstar’s new aircraft.

Why all the fuss?

As Qantas Domestic CEO Markus Svensson explains, the extended range of the A321XLR opens up new opportunities. It allows Qantas to operate the aircraft not only on domestic services but also on short-haul international routes to destinations across South East Asia and the Pacific Islands, markets that are currently out of reach for the 737 fleet. Deploying a widebody on these thinner routes isn’t economical and therefore they have not been a good option for Qantas. The A321XLR offers the best of both worlds: long range, high fuel efficiency, and the right capacity. With a maximum range of up to 8,700 kilometres which is over 3,000 kilometres more than the Boeing 737, it significantly extends Qantas’ network options.

The airline is also deepening its commitment to the type, increasing its total order to 48 aircraft as part of the Group’s largest-ever fleet renewal program. Sixteen of these will be configured with lie-flat Business Class seats and seatback entertainment, tailored for longer missions such as transcontinental services to and from Perth, as well as select short- and medium-haul international routes. By the end of this financial year, Qantas will have seven of the aircraft type.

In Economy, the new A321XLRs will deliver a noticeably improved experience compared to Qantas’ current 737-800s. While maintaining the same 30-inch seat pitch, the A321XLR offers wider 17.6-inch seats with enhanced cushioning for extra comfort. Each seat features a leather six-way adjustable headrest, dual USB-A and USB-C charging ports, and a drop-down tablet holder to make the most of fast, free Wi-Fi and inflight entertainment. Passengers will also benefit from an adjustable meal table, making the overall experience more spacious, connected, and comfortable than the 737s they replace.

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