Air Canada has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR, marking a key step in expanding its long-range narrow-body operations. The aircraft was handed over by Airbus in Hamburg.
The aircraft, the first of a 30-unit order, has been leased through SMBC Aviation Capital. Powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, it features a two-class cabin with 14 lie-flat business class seats and 168 economy seats, along with an upgraded inflight entertainment system and increased baggage capacity.
With a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles (approximately 8,600 km), the A321XLR stands out with lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions. The aircraft is expected to enable new nonstop routes from Montreal and Toronto to destinations such as Berlin, Toulouse, and Edinburgh.
