Qantas’s First Airbus A321XLR Has Landed in Sydney
The first of Qantas’s new Airbus A321XLRs has touched down in Sydney after a 42-hour journey from Hamburg – via Bangkok – marking the start of a new era of domestic travel in Australia.
Why is this a big deal?
This Airbus A321XLR – codenamed VH-OGA Great Ocean Road – is the first of 28 A321XLRs that Qantas commissioned as part of Project Winton, the airline’s initiative to renew a significant portion of its current domestic fleet. Project Sunrise, which focuses on the international fleet, will see 12 Airbus A350-1000s operate non-stop flights from Australia to major cities including New York and London.
Project Winton’s A321XLRs were ordered in addition to 29 A220s (the first of which landed in December 2023, emblazoned with First Nations livery) and together, they are set to replace the retiring Boeing 737 and 717 models. With the new planes, flights will be significantly more comfortable – the A321XLRs offering more space for passengers and larger seats, while also being more energy efficient. Each of the new Qantas aircraft will be named after an iconic Australian road, river or walk.
What’s new about the A321XLR?
Australians who fly in an A321XLR can expect more spacious economy seats, additional business and economy seats and up to 60 per cent more storage room for bags. Devised by award-winning Australian industrial designer and creative director David Caon, the cabin features ambient LED lighting throughout, higher ceilings and larger windows, allowing more natural light to enter the aircraft. Travellers can also expect a 50 per cent reduction in noise while flying.
Conveniently, you’ll have access to wi-fi during your flight (tap into the Qantas Entertainment app to watch some of the latest movies, television shows and the airline’s own inflight guided meditation) and there are USB-C and USB-A charging ports available throughout the plane. Business travellers will find wireless charging pads – for powering up your phone, watch or earbuds – in the arm of seats. And of course, you’ll still find the latest issue of Qantas magazine tucked in the seat pocket in front of you.
Where are the A321XLRs flying?
The major goal of Project Winton is to enhance the domestic flight experience, but it's worth noting that the A321XLR has the longest range of any narrowbody aircraft at 8700 kilometres or 11 hours non-stop airtime, meaning flights to the nearby Pacific Islands and Southeast Asia are also on the cards. Flight routes are set to be announced as more of the fleet arrives in Australia.
What else do I need to know?
Qantas has been focusing on sustainable air travel, including investing in lower carbon sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The A321XLRs are another evolution, with the aircraft comprised of lightweight materials and innovative technology designed to minimise fuel burn and reduce the amount of emissions by up to 30 per cent.
