Accelerated progress in the flight testing of the A321XLR aircraft
The Airbus A321XLR, a long-range version of the popular A321neo, has recently concluded its flight test campaign. This comprehensive testing phase involved multiple flight test aircraft, each with a unique role, to validate the design, performance, and certification requirements of the A321XLR.
In the programme, a total of four flight test aircraft participated, including an upgraded regular A321neo (MSN6839). The first new-build test aircraft, MSN11000 (FTV1), and MSN11058 ('FTV2') were equipped with the full suite of flight-test instrumentation and engineer interactive stations.
FTV1, the first in the series, has already completed numerous tests, including flight-envelope opening; flight control laws clearance; rotation law evaluation and angle-of-attack (AOA) protection tuning; high speed performance flights, anemometry calibration, fuel and landing gear system ground testing, and some autopilot tests.
FTV3, the third new-build aircraft, powered by CFM LEAP engines, will focus more on maturity testing of the passenger cabin interior elements and route-proving for customers. Due to its focus, FTV3 will feature a lighter FTI installation.
Notable flight-physics-related changes on the A321XLR include a simpler single-slotted inboard flap system, an electronically signalled "e-Rudder", and uprated landing gear, wheels, and brakes. The new inboard flap system has been retrofitted into MSN6839, making it aerodynamically equivalent to the A321XLR once the landing gear is retracted.
Airbus has taken the opportunity to infuse some recent developments to the overall flight control system design of the A321XLR. The aim is to enhance flight control design commonality across all programs.
Two more prototypes of the A321XLR development aircraft are in advanced stages of manufacture and will join the certification flight-test campaign. The completion of global flight testing and ground lab testing activities, and the submission of all final documents to the airworthiness authorities will allow for the validation and certification of the complete A321XLR aircraft.
Jean-Philippe Cottet, head of Flight Tests, states that they are certifying the two engine types in parallel on the A321XLR in the same timescale, a first in their history. Gary O'Donnell, Head of the A321XLR programme, expects the three flight test aircraft to be flying actively by the fourth quarter of this year.
The A321XLR, with its increased fuel capacity and structural modifications for extended range, necessitated thorough testing. Despite certification completion and initial deliveries in late 2024, some US carriers like American Airlines did not receive their first A321XLRs until July 29, 2025, mainly due to production and interior fitting delays caused by supply chain issues. United Airlines’ deliveries are delayed further, expected in mid-2026, due to ongoing certification scrutiny and production delays.
FTV3's duties will also focus on demonstrating the aircraft's operation on the expected route scenarios for its customers, especially so-called 'demanding' ones to validate the aircraft's operation at the extremities of take-off weights, range, runway constraints, ground temperatures, and weather conditions.
Airbus is building its full industrial system, including all jigs, tools, and processes, not only in every involved Airbus factory, but also in those of its extended industrial chain and at suppliers around the world. This comprehensive approach ensures a smooth transition from the testing phase to mass production and delivery of the A321XLR to its customers.
