Industry Airbus A321neo receives EASA and FAA approval for long-range capability

The approval includes up to three Additional Centre Tanks (ACTs), which are now certified on the A321neo. Moreover, Airbus´ newest single-aisle aircraft is now approved for ETOPS operations.

Airbus stated, that the certification by the EASA and FAA will pave the way for A321neo customers to start Long Range (LR) operations. Airbus expects, that the A321LR will mostly be used on transatlantic routes between Europe and the United States.

The A321LR is now capable of fly up to 4,000nm with 206 passengers on board. With ETOPS authorisation, the aircraft has an up to 180 minutes long single-engine diversion time. This capability is especially interesting for customers performing transatlantic flights.

With the approval to install three underfloor-ACTs on the A321neo comes a new fuel management system and further reinforcements in the lower-fuselage. In addition, Airbus has received the approval to deliver A321neo “Airbus Cabin Flex” (ACF) aircraft to customers. The ACF features a new door arrangement and has a higher Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) of up to 97 metric tonnes. The seat density is higher compared to the standard A321neo.

From 2020 onwards, the A321 ACF configuration will become the standard option for all new delivered A321neos. With the ability to add or remove ACTs, and in combination with the ACF, Airbus hopes to acquire new customers, that are in need for unprecedented airline flexibility and additional seats in their aircraft.