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The initial version of the Airbus A321XLR, powered by CFM International's Leap 1A engines, has received type certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This certification paves the way for the narrowbody airliner's entry into service at the end of the summer. The European regulator's executive director, Florian Guillermet, handed over the type certificate to A321XLR chief engineer Isabelle Bloy on Friday.
Airbus expects to gain certification of an alternative version of the A321XLR powered by Pratt & Whitney's Geared Turbofan later this year.
"Here comes the A321XLR, a differentiated product that brings new value to the market, expanding the possibilities for our airline customers and passengers," said Airbus commercial aircraft division CEO Christian Scherer. “With its long range, the A321XLR enables a host of new direct routes, offering natural growth opportunities to our customers and the traveling public. With the certification, we have reached a key milestone. The next step is to prepare the aircraft for its first commercial missions with customers worldwide. We look forward to working with XLR customers to support the integration of the aircraft in their fleets.”
