The Airbus A321LR (Long Range) is a next-generation narrow-body aircraft designed to operate long-haul routes traditionally served by wide-body jets. Part of the highly successful A320neo family, the A321LR combines extended range, excellent fuel efficiency, and passenger comfort in a single-aisle aircraft.
First introduced in 2018, the A321LR has transformed airline route planning by making thin long-haul routes economically viable.
A321LR
Airbus A321LR Specifications
General Information
Manufacturer: Airbus
Aircraft Type: Narrow-body, long-range jet
Family: A320neo
Engines:
Pratt & Whitney PW1100G-JM
CFM LEAP-1A
Cockpit Crew: 2 pilots
Airbus A321LR Dimensions
Length: 44.51 m (146 ft)
Wingspan: 35.8 m (with Sharklets)
Height: 11.76 m
The airframe is identical to the A321neo, but performance enhancements significantly extend its operational range.
Airbus A321LR Seating Capacity
The A321LR seating capacity varies by airline configuration:
Typical two-class layout: 160–180 passengers
High-density layout: Up to 220 passengers
Premium long-haul layout: 150–170 passengers
This allows airlines to offer lie-flat business class seats and enhanced economy cabins on transcontinental and transatlantic flights.
Airbus A321LR Range and Performance
Key Performance Metrics
Maximum Range: Up to 4,000 nautical miles (7,400 km)
Cruise Speed: Mach 0.78
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 97 tons
The A321LR achieves its extended range through:
Three Additional Centre Tanks (ACTs)
Improved aerodynamics
New-generation engines
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Benefits
The Airbus A321LR delivers:
15–20% lower fuel burn compared to previous-generation aircraft
Reduced CO₂ emissions per seat
Lower noise footprint around airports
These benefits help airlines meet sustainability targets while reducing operating costs.
Airbus A321LR Cabin and Passenger Comfort
Despite being a single-aisle aircraft, the A321LR offers long-haul comfort features such as:
Wider cabin than competing narrow-body jets
Full-size overhead bins
Modern LED mood lighting
Advanced in-flight entertainment systems
Improved air quality and lower cabin noise
Many airlines configure the A321LR with flat-bed business class seats, making it competitive with wide-body aircraft on long routes.
Routes Operated by the Airbus A321LR
The A321LR enables routes such as:
North America ↔ Europe
Middle East ↔ Europe
Asia ↔ Australia (select routes)
Long transcontinental domestic flights
These routes were previously uneconomical for wide-body aircraft with lower passenger demand.
Airlines Operating the Airbus A321LR
Major airlines using the A321LR include:
Aer Lingus
TAP Air Portugal
JetBlue
Air Transat
Singapore Airlines
Turkish Airlines
Low-cost and full-service carriers alike value the A321LR for its versatility and cost efficiency.
Why the Airbus A321LR Is a Game Changer
The Airbus A321LR has redefined long-haul aviation by:
Making point-to-point travel more efficient
Reducing airline costs on long-distance routes
Expanding global connectivity to smaller markets
It bridges the gap between narrow-body and wide-body aircraft better than any aircraft before it.
Conclusion
The Airbus A321LR stands as one of the most innovative aircraft in modern aviation. By combining long-range capability, fuel efficiency, and passenger comfort in a narrow-body design, it enables airlines to operate profitable long-haul routes with unprecedented flexibility.
As global travel demand evolves, the A321LR will continue to play a critical role in shaping the future of air transport.
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