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Airbus A321LR

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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