Air Canada has placed its first Airbus A321XLR into commercial service, becoming the launch operator of the type in Canada and adding a new aircraft category to its fleet strategy.
The aircraft entered service on June 9 operating flight AC413 between Montreal and Toronto. It is scheduled to make its first international flight on June 15, linking Montreal and Toulouse, France.
Related news
Air Canada plans to use the A321XLR to serve routes that do not require the capacity of larger widebody aircraft while maintaining the range needed for transatlantic operations.
"The entry into service of the first Airbus A321XLR marks a transformative moment for Air Canada," said Mark Galardo, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. He added that the aircraft would allow the airline to open new destinations and provide greater flexibility across its network.
Air Canada A321XLR | Air Canada 
Air Canada A321XLR | Air Canada 
Air Canada A321XLR | Air Canada
Configured with 182 seats, the A321XLR features 14 lie-flat business class seats and 168 economy class seats. Air Canada said it is the first Canadian airline to offer fully flat beds on a single-aisle aircraft.
The aircraft also introduces the airline's new cabin design standard, which includes larger in-flight entertainment screens, Bluetooth connectivity and onboard Wi-Fi.
Follow Air Data News: WhatsApp | Google News | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook
Air Canada has 30 A321XLRs on order, split between direct purchases from Airbus and leased aircraft. The airline expects the type to play a growing role in its network development over the coming years.
The arrival of the A321XLR forms part of Air Canada's fleet renewal program, which includes planned additions such as Boeing 787-10s, Airbus A350-1000s and more Airbus A220s. The airline has acknowledged, however, that the renewal process is progressing more slowly than expected because of delays in Airbus aircraft deliveries.
