LATAM Airlines is the new customer for the A321XLR, the ultra-long-range variant of Airbus’ single-aisle jet. The South American carrier has placed a new order for 17 A321neos, which include the new version, capable of flying up to 4,700 nm nonstop.
Airbus, however, did not reveal how many of the 17 jets will be the A321XLR version, whose first prototype has just flown for the first time. The aircraft is expected to enter service in 2024.
With the new order, LATAM reaches a total of 100 A320neo family aircraft on order, with 43 A320neo and 57 A321neo, none of them yet delivered. The airline will receive its first larger-capacity model in 2023, but under a leasing agreement.
“We applaud LATAM’s strategic vision and sustainability ambition. This order for the A321neo on the heels of its restructuring is a strong sign for the value Airbus brings to making this vision and ambition a reality. The A321XLR will enable the opening of new routes and will allow LATAM to increase its international reach in the region” said Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Airbus International.
Thanks to its unrivaled autonomy, the A321XLR can fly for up to 11 hours and thus replace widebodies on medium-demand routes with great operational cost reduction. The aircraft can accommodate up to 240 passengers in a one-class configuration.
Until the publication of the article, LATAM had not yet commented on the agreement with Airbus.
