What is the Airbus A321neo and what does 'neo' stand for?

The Airbus A321neo is a single-aisle airliner manufactured by Airbus. The 'neo' acronym signifies 'New Engine Option,' indicating it is an updated version of the original A321 with significant improvements.

How does the A321neo relate to the earlier Airbus A321 model?

The A321neo is developed from the original Airbus A321, which first entered service in 1994 with Lufthansa. The A321neo represents the latest iteration of the A321 within the broader Airbus A320neo family.

What are the primary advantages of the A321neo compared to its predecessor?

The A321neo features new, more fuel-efficient engines (CFM International LEAP-1A or Pratt & Whitney PW1100G-JM) and standard sharklets. These enhancements result in an advertised 20% increase in fuel efficiency per passenger, along with an additional 500 nautical miles of range or 2 tonnes more payload capacity.

When was the Airbus A321neo announced and when did it enter service?

Airbus announced the A321neo in December 2010 as an improvement and replacement for the A321ceo (Current Engine Option). The aircraft made its first flight on February 9, 2016, and entered commercial service with Virgin America on May 31, 2017.

What is the typical passenger capacity of the Airbus A321neo?

The A321neo typically seats between 180 and 220 passengers in a standard two-class configuration. However, it can accommodate up to 244 passengers when configured for high-density seating.

Which airlines are identified as the primary users of the Airbus A321neo?

As of June 2025, the primary users of the Airbus A321neo include Wizz Air, IndiGo, American Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, with Wizz Air and IndiGo being the largest operators.

What engines are available for the Airbus A321neo?

The Airbus A321neo is offered with two engine options: the CFM International LEAP-1A and the Pratt & Whitney PW1100G-JM. The LEAP engine is a collaboration between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines.

How does the A321neo's design differ structurally from the A321ceo?

While maintaining the same overall length as the A321ceo, the A321neo incorporates structural strengthening in its landing gear and wing. It also features increased wing loading and modifications to accommodate the new engines and systems, resulting in a slightly higher operating empty weight.

What is the Airbus Cabin Flex (ACF) configuration and what benefit does it provide?

The Airbus Cabin Flex (ACF) configuration involves replacing the standard second pair of doors with overwing exits. This modification allows for a higher maximum passenger capacity, increasing it from 220 to 240 seats, and contributes an additional 6% improvement in fuel efficiency per seat.

What challenges led to delivery delays for some A321neo operators?

Early reliability issues encountered by Pratt & Whitney with the PW1100G engines required retrofitting fixes, which consequently affected the delivery schedules for airlines operating the A321neo.

What is the A321LR variant, and what does it offer?

The A321LR (Long Range) is a variant of the A321neo designed for longer flights. It typically features three auxiliary center fuel tanks, increasing its fuel capacity and enabling a range of approximately 4,000 nautical miles, making it suitable for transatlantic routes.

When was the A321LR launched, and who was the launch customer?

The A321LR was launched in January 2015, with Air Lease Corporation serving as the launch customer. It was scheduled for introduction in the second half of 2018.

What is the A321XLR variant, and how does its range compare to the A321LR?

The A321XLR (Xtra Long Range) is a further development of the A321neo family, designed for even longer flights. It offers an extended range of approximately 4,700 nautical miles, surpassing the A321LR's range, primarily through the integration of a permanent rear center fuel tank (RCT) and a higher maximum takeoff weight.

When did the A321XLR officially launch, and when are deliveries expected?

The A321XLR was officially launched at the Paris Air Show on June 17, 2019, with initial deliveries anticipated to commence in 2023, though later reports indicated a shift to 2024 due to regulatory reviews of fuel tank designs.

What are the key design features of the A321XLR that enable its extended range?

The A321XLR's extended range is achieved through several key features: a permanent rear center tank (RCT) holding 12,900 liters of fuel, strengthened landing gear to support a higher MTOW of up to 101 tonnes, and an optimized wing trailing-edge flap system to maintain takeoff performance.

Which airlines were among the early customers or had significant orders for the A321XLR?

Significant early orders for the A321XLR came from airlines and lessors such as Middle East Airlines (launch customer), Air Lease Corporation, International Airlines Group (IAG), Qantas Group, American Airlines, IndiGo Partners, and United Airlines.

What is the significance of the A321XLR in terms of replacing older aircraft?

The A321XLR is seen as a replacement for older, less efficient wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 757 on medium-haul routes, offering comparable range with improved fuel efficiency and lower operating costs, thus filling a gap in the market.

Where does the final assembly of the Airbus A321neo and its variants take place?

The final assembly of the Airbus A321neo and its variants, including the LR and XLR, takes place in Hamburg, Germany.

What is the typical cruise speed of the Airbus A321neo?

The typical cruise speed for the Airbus A321neo is Mach 0.78, which equates to approximately 450 knots or 833 kilometers per hour (518 miles per hour).

What is the maximum certified ceiling for the Airbus A321neo variants?

The Airbus A321neo variants typically have a maximum certified ceiling ranging between 39,100 and 39,800 feet (approximately 11,900 to 12,100 meters).

How does the A321neo's empty weight compare to the A321ceo?

The A321neo has an operating empty weight that is approximately 1.8 tonnes (4,000 lb) greater than the A321ceo. This increase is attributed to the new engines and the associated airframe modifications required for their integration.

What is the purpose of the 'N', 'NX', and 'NY' suffixes in A321neo model designations?

The suffixes indicate the cabin configuration: 'N' denotes the original A321 airframes with a standard (STD) cabin door layout, 'NX' signifies the Cabin Flex (ACF) configuration (used for A321LR), and 'NY' designates the A321XLR models.

How are the engine options differentiated in the A321neo model numbers?

The model numbers indicate the engine type: a '5' (e.g., A321-251N) signifies CFM International LEAP-1A engines, while a '7' (e.g., A321-271N) indicates Pratt & Whitney PW1100G engines. The final digit denotes thrust ratings ('1' for standard, '2' for derated, '3' for uprated).

What is the A321MPA variant?

The A321MPA (Maritime Patrol Aircraft) is a variant announced in November 2024, based on the A321XLR. It is designed for maritime patrol missions, featuring observation windows and a weapons bay, and is intended to replace the French Navy's Bréguet 1150 Atlantic aircraft.

What was the list price of an A321neo in 2018?

In 2018, the list price for an Airbus A321neo was reported to be US$129.5 million.

How did the A321neo's order numbers compare to the A321ceo over time?

By January 2018, the A321neo had already surpassed the total orders for the A321ceo. The A321neo represented 32% of A320neo family orders at that time, significantly outperforming the A321's share of the A320ceo family orders (22%). By July 2022, the A321neo accounted for over 53% of all A320neo family orders.

What is the cargo capacity of the A321neo?

The A321neo has a cargo capacity of 51.70 cubic meters (1,826 cubic feet), which can accommodate 10 standard LD3-45 cargo containers.

What was the outcome of the tailstrike incident involving the A321neo prototype?

The Airbus A321neo prototype (D-AVXB) experienced a tailstrike three days after its first flight on February 9, 2016. It was flown to Toulouse for repairs, which caused a delay of several weeks in the aircraft's certification program.

Which airline received the first A321neo and put it into service?

Virgin America was the first airline to receive the Airbus A321neo and put it into commercial service in May 2017.

What is the maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) for the different A321neo variants?

The standard A321neo has an MTOW of 93.5 tonnes. The A321LR typically has an MTOW of 97 tonnes, while the A321XLR can have an MTOW ranging from 97 to 101 tonnes, depending on its specific configuration.

What is the maximum payload capacity of the A321neo?

The maximum payload capacity for the A321neo is approximately 25.5 tonnes (56,200 lb).

What are the dimensions of the Airbus A321neo's fuselage?

The A321neo's fuselage measures 3.95 meters (13.0 ft) in width and 4.14 meters (13.6 ft) in height, with a cabin width of 3.70 meters (12.1 ft).

What is the wingspan of the Airbus A321neo?

The Airbus A321neo has a wingspan of 35.80 meters (117 ft 5 in).

What is the wing area of the Airbus A321neo?

The Airbus A321neo has a wing area of 122.4 square meters (1,318 sq ft) and features a wing sweep of 25 degrees.

What is the maximum continuous thrust for the engines offered on the A321neo?

The maximum continuous thrust for the engines offered on the A321neo ranges from 140.96 kN (31,690 lb) for the CFM LEAP variants to 145.81 kN (32,780 lb) for the Pratt & Whitney PW1100G variants.

What is the maximum speed of the Airbus A321neo?

The maximum speed for the Airbus A321neo is Mach 0.82, which is approximately 473 knots or 876 kilometers per hour (544 miles per hour).

What is the typical range of the A321neo compared to the A321LR and A321XLR?

The standard A321neo has a typical range of 3,500 nautical miles. The A321LR extends this to 4,000 nautical miles, while the A321XLR further increases it to 4,700 nautical miles.

What specific modifications were made to the A321XLR's wing design?

The A321XLR features an optimized wing trailing-edge flap system, transitioning from a double-slotted to a single-slotted inboard flap. This change reduces complexity, weight, and drag, and allows for intermediate flap settings managed by the Flight Management System (FMS).

What regulatory approvals did the A321XLR receive, and when?

The A321XLR received its type certificate from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) on July 19, 2024, and from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on October 2, 2024. The Pratt & Whitney PW1100G-powered variant received its EASA type certification in February 2025.

Who was the launch customer for the A321XLR's first revenue flight?

Iberia conducted the first revenue flight with the A321XLR on November 6, 2024, after receiving the first aircraft on October 30, 2024.

What is the role of the rear center tank (RCT) in the A321XLR?

The permanent rear center tank (RCT) in the A321XLR is a key feature for its extended range, holding 12,900 liters (3,400 US gallons) of fuel. It is integrated into the fuselage to save weight and replaces the need for multiple additional center tanks used in earlier variants.

How does the A321neo family address different market needs regarding range and capacity?

The A321neo family offers flexibility through its variants: the standard A321neo for typical routes, the A321LR for extended range, and the A321XLR for ultra-long-range missions. Additionally, the Cabin Flex (ACF) option allows airlines to optimize seating configurations for varying passenger demands.

What are the main differences between the A321neo ACF and the standard A321neo?

The primary difference is the Airbus Cabin Flex (ACF) configuration, which modifies the door layout by replacing the second pair of doors with overwing exits. This allows for a higher maximum passenger capacity and improved fuel efficiency per seat compared to the standard A321neo.

What is the significance of the 'ETOPS' certification for the A321LR?

The A321LR received ETOPS (Extended-range Twin-engine Operational Performance Standards) certification up to 180 minutes. This certification allows the aircraft to fly routes over extended distances from suitable diversion airports, enabling true transatlantic operations.

What specific modifications were made to the A321XLR's landing gear?

The A321XLR features strengthened landing gear. This enhancement is necessary to support the variant's increased maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of up to 101 tonnes, which is crucial for its ultra-long-range capabilities.

How does Airbus manage the center of gravity (CG) in stretched versions of the A321neo?

For potential stretched versions of the A321neo, Airbus might use fore and aft plugs to maintain the aircraft's center of gravity. This is a critical design consideration to ensure stability and performance during flight.

What is the role of sharklets on the A321neo?

Sharklets are wingtip devices that improve the aerodynamic efficiency of the aircraft. They are fitted as standard on the A321neo and contribute to the overall gains in fuel efficiency and performance.

What was the initial customer for the A321neo prototype?

The initial customer for the Airbus A321neo prototype, registered D-AVXB, was AerCap, which placed the order on April 27, 2011. IndiGo was the first commercial airline customer to order the type.

What is the maximum number of passengers the A321XLR can carry according to EASA regulations?

According to EASA regulations, the A321XLR can carry up to 244 passengers, provided it is equipped with specific 'overperforming' Type C exits at both ends, two Type III overwing exits, and a Type C mid-cabin exit, along with potential custom cabin layout approvals.

What is the typical fuel capacity of the A321neo, A321LR, and A321XLR?

The standard A321neo has a fuel capacity of 23,490 liters. The A321LR increases this to 32,853 liters with three additional center tanks, while the A321XLR can hold up to 39,511 liters with its rear center tank and an optional forward tank.

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Aviation Overview

The A321neo

The Airbus A321neo represents a significant evolution within Airbus's highly successful A320 family of narrow-body airliners. As the longest variant in the A320neo (New Engine Option) series, it builds upon the foundation of the original A321ceo (Current Engine Option), which first entered service in 1994. The A321neo is engineered to accommodate between 180 and 220 passengers in a typical two-class configuration, with potential for up to 244 in high-density layouts, offering enhanced efficiency and range capabilities.

Global Reach

Originating from a multi-national manufacturing base, the A321neo is a testament to collaborative aerospace engineering. Its design prioritizes fuel efficiency and extended operational range, making it a competitive offering in the global single-aisle airliner market. Key operators include Wizz Air, IndiGo, American Airlines, and China Southern Airlines, underscoring its widespread adoption across diverse airline fleets.

Market Position

Launched as a direct response to market demands for improved performance and reduced operating costs, the A321neo family has achieved substantial commercial success. Its development was officially announced in December 2010, with the first flight occurring in February 2016 and entry into service in May 2017. The aircraft's advanced aerodynamics, coupled with new engine options, deliver a notable improvement in fuel efficiency per passenger, positioning it as a cornerstone of modern short-to-medium haul air travel.

Development Trajectory

Genesis of the Neo

The development of the A321neo was formally initiated by Airbus in 2010, marking a strategic enhancement of its established A321 platform. This initiative was part of a broader strategy to re-engine the entire A320 family, introducing the "New Engine Option" (neo). The development timeline, from conception to first flight, spanned approximately six years, a relatively condensed period attributed to its nature as an upgrade rather than a completely new design. The prototype, registered D-AVXB, was equipped with CFM International LEAP-1A engines and conducted its inaugural flight from Hamburg, Germany.

Customer Engagement

Early customer engagement played a pivotal role in shaping the A321neo's market introduction. AerCap emerged as the first customer to place an order in April 2011, followed closely by IndiGo, which committed to a substantial order of 304 A321neos in June 2011. This strong initial customer backing signaled robust market confidence in the aircraft's potential.

Production and Certification

Final assembly of the A321neo takes place in Hamburg, Germany, a key manufacturing hub for Airbus. The aircraft's components are sourced globally, reflecting Airbus's multinational operational structure. The A321neo achieved crucial type certifications from both the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its various engine configurations, paving the way for its commercial service entry.

Variant Evolution

A321neo (Standard)

The baseline A321neo offers enhanced fuel efficiency and performance over its predecessor. It typically features a standard cabin door configuration and can be fitted with optional auxiliary center tanks (ACTs) to increase fuel capacity. The designation "N" (e.g., A321-271N) typically indicates the standard cabin layout, while "NX" (e.g., A321-272NX) denotes the Airbus Cabin Flex (ACF) configuration.

A321LR (Long Range)

Introduced as a derivative of the A321neo ACF, the A321LR is specifically designed for extended-range operations. It incorporates up to three ACTs, significantly increasing its fuel capacity and enabling flights of approximately 4,000 nautical miles. This variant provides true transatlantic capability, effectively bridging the gap left by the retirement of aircraft like the Boeing 757 in the middle-of-the-market segment.

A321XLR (Extra Long Range)

The A321XLR represents a further enhancement, pushing the boundaries of single-aisle aircraft range. It features a permanent Rear Centre Tank (RCT) and can be equipped with an additional forward ACT, extending its range to approximately 4,700 nautical miles. This capability allows for new long-haul routes previously only feasible with wide-body aircraft. The XLR's design includes a strengthened landing gear for a higher Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) and optimized aerodynamic features.

A321MPA (Maritime Patrol)

A specialized variant, the A321MPA, is being developed for maritime patrol and surveillance roles. Based on the A321XLR airframe, it is intended to replace older maritime patrol aircraft. Notable features include observation windows and a ventral weapons bay, positioning it as a modern platform for naval and coast guard operations.

Technical Specifications

Key Performance Metrics

The A321neo family offers a range of configurations and performance characteristics tailored to different market needs. The specifications highlight advancements in fuel capacity, payload, and range, particularly with the LR and XLR variants. The table below provides a comparative overview of the primary specifications across the main variants.

A321neo family variants
Variant	A321neo^[91]	A321LR	A321XLR
Cockpit crew	Two
2-class seats	206 (16J @ 91 cm (36 in) + 190Y @ 76 cm (30 in))^[92]
1-class max.	244 @ 71 cm (28 in)^[93]^[94]
Cargo capacity	51.70 m³ (1,826 cu ft) / 10×LD3-45s^[a]
Length	44.51 m (146 ft)
Wingspan	35.80 m (117 ft 5 in) ^[b]
Wing	122.4 m² (1,318 sq ft) area, 25° sweep^[95]
Height	11.76 m (38.6 ft)
Fuselage	3.95 by 4.14 m (13.0 by 13.6 ft) width × height, 3.70 m (12.1 ft) wide cabin
Max. takeoff weight	93.5 t (206,100 lb)	97 t (213,800 lb)	97–101 t (213,800–222,700 lb) ^[c]
Max. payload	25.5 t (56,200 lb)^: 3-2-1
Op. empty weight	50.1 t (110,500 lb)
Fuel capacity	23,490 L (6,210 US gal)^[a]^[97]	32,853 L (8,679 US gal)^[d]	36,390 L (9,613 US gal)^[c] 39,511 L (10,437 US gal)^[e]
Engines (×2)	CFM LEAP-1A, 200 cm (78 in) fan Pratt & Whitney PW1100G-JM, 210 cm (81 in) fan
Max. Thrust (×2)^[98]	143.05–147.28 kN (32,160–33,110 lb)
Speed	Cruise: Mach 0.78 (450 kn; 833 km/h; 518 mph)^[99] Max.: Mach 0.82 (473 kn; 876 km/h; 544 mph)^[98]
Ceiling	39,100–39,800 ft (11,900–12,100 m)^[98]
Typical range	3,500 nmi (6,480 km; 4,030 mi)^[100]	4,000 nmi (7,410 km; 4,600 mi)^[f]	4,700 nmi (8,700 km; 5,410 mi)

Design Innovations

The A321neo incorporates several design enhancements to achieve its performance goals. These include structural strengthening of the landing gear and wing, increased wing loading, and the integration of new, more fuel-efficient engines. The Airbus Cabin Flex (ACF) configuration, which modifies the door layout by replacing the second pair of doors with overwing exits, allows for higher passenger capacity and improved weight distribution. This flexibility is key to optimizing the aircraft for various route structures and passenger loads.

Global Operators

Fleet Deployment

As of June 2025, the Airbus A321neo is a prominent fixture in global aviation, with 1,752 aircraft in service across 88 different operators. The aircraft's efficiency and range have made it a preferred choice for airlines worldwide. The leading operators, by fleet size, include Wizz Air (156 aircraft), IndiGo (143 aircraft), American Airlines (84 aircraft), China Southern Airlines (84 aircraft), and Delta Air Lines (76 aircraft). This widespread adoption underscores the A321neo's success in meeting diverse airline operational requirements.

Order and Delivery Trends

The A321neo has consistently demonstrated strong market demand since its introduction. The order book reflects a significant preference for this variant within the A320neo family. By July 2022, the A321neo constituted over 53% of all A320neo family orders, highlighting its dominance in the narrow-body market segment. The table below illustrates the substantial growth in orders and deliveries since 2011.

	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2016	2017	2018	2019	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024	2025	A321neo
Orders	119	81	341	183	346	287	532	360	965	208	616	530	1562	658	235	7,064
Deliveries	–	–	–	–	–	–	20	102	168	178	199	264	317	361	143	1,752

Historical Context

From Concept to Service

The conceptualization of the A321neo began in earnest in 2010, building upon the established success of the A321ceo. The decision to introduce new engine options was driven by the industry's demand for greater fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact. The first flight of the A321neo prototype occurred on February 9, 2016, marking a significant milestone in its development. Despite a minor setback involving a tailstrike during early testing, the program progressed efficiently. The aircraft officially entered commercial service on May 31, 2017, with Virgin America, demonstrating the culmination of years of engineering and market analysis.

Market Dynamics

The introduction of the A321neo coincided with Boeing's launch of the 737 MAX family, intensifying competition in the narrow-body market. Airbus's strategic decision to offer enhanced performance and range through the neo program proved highly successful. The A321neo, in particular, has captured a substantial market share, often exceeding the order numbers of its predecessor, the A321ceo. This success is largely attributed to its ability to serve longer routes and its improved operating economics.

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References

with sharklets

With RCT + optional forward ACT[52]

A full list of references for this article are available at the Airbus A321neo Wikipedia page

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This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence system, drawing upon publicly available data from Wikipedia. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness, the content is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for official technical documentation, professional engineering consultation, or regulatory guidance.

This is not professional aviation advice. Users should consult official Airbus documentation and qualified aerospace professionals for specific operational, technical, or safety-related decisions. The information provided herein is based on data available at the time of generation and may not reflect the most current specifications, operational procedures, or market developments.

The creators of this page are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented. Users are encouraged to cross-reference information with authoritative sources.

Aviation Ascendancy

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Aviation Overview ✈️

🚀 The A321neo

🌍 Global Reach

📈 Market Position

Development Trajectory ⚙️

📜 Genesis of the Neo

🤝 Customer Engagement

🏭 Production and Certification

Variant Evolution 🗄️

➡️ A321neo (Standard)

🗺️ A321LR (Long Range)

🌐 A321XLR (Extra Long Range)

🛡️ A321MPA (Maritime Patrol)

Technical Specifications 📊

📏 Key Performance Metrics

💡 Design Innovations

Global Operators 🏢

🌍 Fleet Deployment

📊 Order and Delivery Trends

Historical Context ⏳

🕰️ From Concept to Service

🚀 Market Dynamics

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Aviation Overview

The A321neo

Global Reach

Market Position

Development Trajectory

Genesis of the Neo

Customer Engagement

Production and Certification

Variant Evolution

A321neo (Standard)

A321LR (Long Range)

A321XLR (Extra Long Range)

A321MPA (Maritime Patrol)

Technical Specifications

Key Performance Metrics

Design Innovations

Global Operators

Fleet Deployment

Order and Delivery Trends

Historical Context

From Concept to Service

Market Dynamics

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice