Skift Take

Qantas is the latest big-name airline to switch from Boeing to Airbus for its next generation of planes. Despite huge retraining and operational complexities, the carrier is betting that the short-term pain will pay off handsomely.

Gordon Smith

Qantas revealed fresh details on Thursday about its all-new aircraft. The Australian flag carrier is due to receive an initial batch of 28 Airbus A321XLR planes, with the first arriving in April next year.

They are a direct replacement for the airline’s existing Boeing 737s. The previous-generation jets are due to leave the Qantas fleet over the next decade.

There are high hopes for the new aircraft, which manufacturer Airbus has coined the ‘XLR’ or ‘Xtra Long Range’. Qantas says it will open up new direct Australian domestic and short-haul international routes.

As one of the world’s largest, yet least densely populated countries, Qantas is likely to feel the benefits of the XLR’s improved range. It can fly around 1,500 nautical miles further than the outgoing 737s. The airline has highlighted Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands as possible new markets for the narrowbody jet.

What Can Passengers Expect Onboard?

Despite being a replacement for the 737, the A321XLR is five meters (16.5 feet) longer than the Boeing jets. The larger plane can seat 197 passengers – an increase of 13% in overall capacity – with the amount of space between economy seats