Airbus (AIB, Toulouse Blagnac) is reportedly mulling developing a new ultra-long-range variant of the A321neo narrowbody, tentatively dubbed the A321XLR, Reuters has reported.
The new variant would be equipped with additional fuel tanks which would extend its range beyond even the capabilities of the A321neo(LR), the longest-range variant of the A320neo Family currently in production and which is currently undergoing type certification.
Airbus has not commented on the report. If confirmed, the new XLR would likely challenge rival Boeing's "Middle Of Market" project. The American manufacturer is currently studying a new type which was broadly outlined during the Paris Air Show in 2017. Although configuration has yet to be firmed, Boeing officials have said it could be in service by 2025.
Deliveries of the A321neo(LR)s are expected to commence later this year, with the first aircraft going to Primera Air Scandinavia (Billund) and TAP Air Portugal (TP, Lisbon). Other airlines which have commitments for the new variant include Norwegian, Aer Lingus, Jetstar Airways, Air Astana, Air Transat, Air Arabia, and Azores Airlines.
According to Flygtorget, Norwegian has already expressed tentative interest in the new ultra-long-range variant.
