One of today's most anticipated commercial aircraft, the A321XLR is about to make its maiden flight. The first test aircraft is almost complete, and there are online photos showing the two engines of the A321XLR already mounted on the wings, see the picture below.
Airbus has not yet confirmed the first flight date of the new A321neo variant, but given that the aircraft is in an advanced stage of construction, it is expected to take place in a few weeks. Until then, however, the prototype will still undergo fuselage painting and ground testing. Mass production deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2023.
The A321xLR is a jetliner designed to set a new benchmark in the single-aisle aircraft segment. According to Airbus, it will be able to fly 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 kilometers) nonstop. This performance seed enables the A321XLR to conduct non-stop transoceanic flights in certain parts of the world. According to the manufacturer, fuel economy savings are about 30% compared to a 1-day jet of similar size. This time, an additional fuel tank (RCT) was inserted at the rear of the fuselage, with a capacity of more than 12,900 liters.
Since the launch of the A321XLR at the 2019 Paris Air Show, Airbus has amassed hundreds of new product orders. As of February this year, 515 aircraft orders were received from 25 customers.