FAA certifies new engine variant for Airbus A321XLR

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FAA certifies new engine variant for Airbus A321XLR

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Simple Flying | Simple Flying

By Sky Industry News

Dec 16, 2024

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted certification to the Pratt & Whitney PW1100G engine variant for the Airbus A321XLR, marking a significant step toward the aircraft's service entry in 2025. Pratt & Whitney announced that this addition to the type certificate data sheet of its Geared Turbofan (GTF) engine family occurred on December 16.

Rick Deurloo, president of commercial engines at Pratt & Whitney, stated that this certification represents an important milestone for the GTF program, which initially powered the A320neo aircraft family. He noted, "The longer range and higher payload capability of the Airbus A321XLR aircraft will provide customers with expanded route flexibility to more destinations."

Pratt & Whitney emphasized that operators of PW1100G-powered A321XLRs would benefit from best-in-class fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions for single-aisle jets. The company reports that 13 airlines have chosen GTF engines for 217 A321XLRs, with over 2,100 such engines delivered worldwide. These engines offer a 20% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to previous models.

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The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) had previously certified the A321XLR on July 19 but only approved operations with CFM International LEAP-1A engines at that time. While EASA and FAA jointly certified LEAP-1A engines, their certifications for PW1100G remain separate. International Aero Engines is the type certificate holder for these GTF engines.

Despite initial plans to certify by year-end, Airbus confirmed it would submit certification documents for the PW1100G-powered A321XLR in early 2025. Meanwhile, Pratt & Whitney aims to introduce its upgraded GTF Advantage engine by then as well.

Iberia became the first airline to operate a commercial flight with an A321XLR on November 6 after receiving its aircraft on October 30. Aer Lingus is expected to follow suit soon after losing launch customer status within its parent group. Other notable customers include Air Canada, Icelandair, JetBlue, United Airlines, and Wizz Air.

JetBlue's recent filing revealed only two out of its ordered thirteen A321XLRs will arrive in 2025 due to delivery adjustments extending into future years.