Qantas Expands Fleet with 20 New Airbus A321XLR Aircraft

Largest Narrowbody Fleet Renewal in Qantas History

Qantas confirmed an order for 20 additional Airbus A321XLR aircraft, raising its total commitment to 48 next-generation jets overall. The airline strengthens its fleet with lie-flat Business Class seats, marking the first time Qantas offers this comfort on narrowbody aircraft.

Deliveries begin in 2028, with 16 jets configured for long transcontinental and medium-haul international services including Perth, Singapore, and Pacific Islands.

First Aircraft Enter Service in September

Qantas will debut its first A321XLRs next month, flying Sydney-Melbourne and Sydney-Perth before expanding across additional domestic and regional routes. By financial year’s end, Qantas expects seven A321XLRs in service, making it the first Asia-Pacific airline to operate this model.

The extended range of 8,700 kilometres allows Qantas to serve routes previously impossible, unlocking new direct connections across Asia and the Pacific.

Billion-Dollar Investment for Future Growth

Qantas Group CEO Vanessa Hudson confirmed the multi-billion dollar investment strengthens customer experience and supports new international markets like Perth-India. The Group holds 214 firm aircraft orders, with 32 already delivered and 20 more scheduled for delivery during this financial year.

Jetstar begins receiving A321XLRs in 2027, fitted with two-class cabins, while Qantas’ Project Sunrise A350s commence delivery from October 2026.