Airbus has delivered the first of 30 A321XLR aircraft for Air Canada, the country’s flag carrier. The aircraft, which is on lease from SMBC Aviation Capital, marks a significant milestone in the airline’s fleet renewal strategy, enabling it to bridge the gap between narrowbody short-haul and widebody long-haul operations.
This delivery makes Air Canada the first operator of the A321XLR in Canada. The aircraft will play a pivotal role in the airline’s network expansion and operational efficiency gains on new and existing long-haul routes, as well as providing the additional range and economics required to serve secondary markets with non-stop connectivity.
Powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, Air Canada’s A321XLR features a sophisticated two-cabin layout designed for maximum comfort on transcontinental and transatlantic flights. The premium cabin features 14 Air Canada Signature Class full-flat seats in a 1-1 configuration, offering every passenger direct aisle access, while the economy cabin has 168 seats. Passengers will experience the Airspace interior design, which boasts the latest in-flight entertainment with Bluetooth audio, full in-seat connectivity, and XL overhead bins providing 60 percent more storage space. Additionally, an advanced ambient lighting system enhances the overall travel experience to help mitigate jetlag.
The A321XLR is the next evolutionary step of the A320neo Family, responding to market needs for more range and payload. It delivers an unprecedented extra-long range of up to 4,700 nautical miles and 30 percent lower fuel burn per seat compared to previous generation competitor aircraft, as well as reduced NOx emissions and noise. The range allows Air Canada to operate non-stop transatlantic flights from Montreal and Toronto to destinations such as Berlin, Toulouse, and Edinburgh. At the end of March 2026, Airbus had secured over 500 orders for the type.
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A321XLR is able to operate with up to 50 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100 percent SAF capable by 2030.
Air Canada currently operates a fleet of 136 Airbus aircraft and has 61 aircraft on order, including recently ordered A350 aircraft.
